A1 n. (pl. As or A's) 1 (also a) first letter of the alphabet. 2 Mus. sixth note of the diatonic scale of C major. 3 first hypothetical person or example. 4 highest category (of roads, marks, etc.). 5 (usu. a) Algebra first known quantity. A1 colloq. first-rate, excellent. from A to B from one place to another. from A to Z from beginning to end.
A2 abbr. (also A.) 1 ampere(s). 2 answer.
a1 adj. (also an before a vowel sound) (called the indefinite article) 1 one, some, any. 2 one like (a Judas). 3 one single (not a chance). 4 the same (all of a size). 5 per (twice a year; seven a side). [Old English an one]
a2 prep. (usu. as prefix) 1 to, towards (ashore; aside). 2 (with verb in pres. part. or infin.) doing or being (a-hunting; abuzz). 3 on (afire). 4 in (nowadays). [Old English an, on, *on]
Å abbr. ångström(s).
a- prefix (also an- before a vowel sound) not, without (amoral). [Greek]
AA abbr. 1 Automobile Association. 2 Alcoholics Anonymous. 3 anti-aircraft.
aardvark n. mammal with a tubular snout and a long tongue, feeding on termites. [Afrikaans]
ab- prefix off, away, from (abduct). [Latin]
aback adv. take aback surprise, disconcert. [Old English: related to *a2]
abacus n. (pl. -cuses) 1 frame with wires along which beads are slid for calculating. 2 Archit. flat slab on top of a capital. [Latin from Greek from Hebrew]
abaft Naut. -adv. in the stern half of a ship. -prep. nearer the stern than. [from *a2, -baft: see *aft]
abandon -v. 1 give up. 2 forsake, desert. 3 (often foll. by to; often refl.) yield to a passion, another's control, etc. -n. freedom from inhibitions. abandonment n. [French: related to *ad-, *ban]
abandoned adj. 1 deserted, forsaken. 2 unrestrained, profligate.
abase v. (-sing) (also refl.) humiliate, degrade. abasement n. [French: related to *ad-, *base2]
abashed predic. adj. embarrassed, disconcerted. [French es- *ex-1, baïr astound]
abate v. (-ting) make or become less strong etc.; diminish. abatement n. [French abatre from Latin batt(u)o beat]
abattoir n. slaughterhouse. [French abatre fell, as *abate]
abbacy n. (pl. -ies) office or jurisdiction of an abbot or abbess. [Latin: related to *abbot]
abbé n. (in France) abbot or priest. [French from Latin: related to *abbot]
abbess n. head of a community of nuns.
abbey n. (pl. -s) 1 building(s) occupied by a community of monks or nuns. 2 the community itself. 3 building that was once an abbey.
abbot n. head of a community of monks. [Old English from Latin abbas]
abbreviate v. (-ting) shorten, esp. represent (a word etc.) by a part of it. abbreviation n. [Latin: related to *brief]
ABC n. 1 the alphabet. 2 rudiments of a subject. 3 alphabetical guide.
abdicate v. (-ting) 1 (usu. absol.) give up or renounce (the throne). 2 renounce (a duty, right, etc.). abdication n. [Latin dico declare]
abdomen n. 1 the belly, including the stomach, bowels, etc. 2 the hinder part of an insect etc. abdominal adj. [Latin]
abduct v. carry off or kidnap illegally. abduction n. abductor n. [Latin duco lead]
abeam adv. at right angles to a ship's or an aircraft's length.
Aberdeen Angus n. animal of a Scottish breed of hornless black cattle. [Aberdeen in Scotland]
Aberdonian -adj. of Aberdeen. -n. native or citizen of Aberdeen. [medieval Latin]
aberrant adj. deviating from what is normal or accepted. [Latin: related to *err]
aberration n. 1 aberrant behaviour; moral or mental lapse. 2 Biol. deviation from a normal type. 3 distortion of an image because of a defect in a lens or mirror. 4 Astron. apparent displacement of a celestial body.
abet v. (-tt-) (usu. in aid and abet) encourage or assist (an offender or offence). [French: related to *ad-, *bait]
abeyance n. (usu. prec. by in, into) temporary disuse. [French: related to *ad-, beer gape]
abhor v. (-rr-) detest; regard with disgust. [Latin: related to *horror]
abhorrence n. disgust; detestation.
abhorrent adj. (often foll. by to) disgusting or hateful.
abide v. (-ding; past abided or rarely abode) 1 (usu. in neg.) tolerate, endure (can't abide him). 2 (foll. by by) a act in accordance with (abide by the rules). b keep (a promise). 3 archaic remain, continue. [Old English a- intensive prefix, *bide]
abiding adj. enduring, permanent.
ability n. (pl. -ies) 1 (often foll. by to + infin.) capacity or power. 2 cleverness, talent. [French: related to *able]
-ability suffix forming nouns of quality from, or corresponding to, adjectives in -able.
ab initio adv. from the beginning. [Latin]
abject adj. miserable, wretched; degraded; despicable. abjection n. [Latin jacio -ject- throw]
abjure v. (-ring) renounce on oath (an opinion, cause, etc.). abjuration n. [Latin juro swear]
ablative Gram. -n. case (in Latin) of nouns and pronouns indicating an agent, instrument, or location. -adj. of or in the ablative. [Latin ablatus taken away]
ablaze predic. adj. & adv. 1 on fire. 2 glittering, glowing. 3 greatly excited.
able adj. (abler, ablest) 1 (often foll. by to + infin.; used esp. in is able, will be able, etc., replacing tenses of can) having the capacity or power (not able to come). 2 talented, clever. ably adv. [Latin habilis]
-able suffix forming adjectives meaning: 1 that may or must be (eatable; payable). 2 that can be made the subject of (dutiable; objectionable). 3 relevant to or in accordance with (fashionable; seasonable). [Latin -abilis]
able-bodied adj. fit, healthy.
able-bodied seaman n. ordinary trained seaman.
ablution n. (usu. in pl.) 1 ceremonial washing of the hands, sacred vessels, etc. 2 colloq. a ordinary bodily washing. b place for this. [Latin ablutio from luo lut- wash]
=-ably suffix forming adverbs corresponding to adjectives in -able.
ABM abbr. anti-ballistic missile.
abnegate v. (-ting) give up or renounce (a pleasure or right etc.). [Latin nego deny]
abnegation n. denial; renunciation of a doctrine.
abnormal adj. deviating from the norm; exceptional. abnormality n. (pl. -ies). abnormally adv. [French: related to *anomalous]
Abo (also abo) Austral. slang usu. offens. -n. (pl. -s) Aboriginal. -adj. Aboriginal. [abbreviation]
aboard adv. & prep. on or into (a ship, aircraft, etc.). [from *a2]
abode1 n. dwelling-place. [related to *abide]
abode2 see *abide.
abolish v. put an end to (esp. a custom or institution). [Latin aboleo destroy]
abolition n. abolishing or being abolished. abolitionist n.
A-bomb n. = *atomic bomb. [A for *atomic]
abominable adj. 1 detestable, loathsome. 2 colloq. very unpleasant (abominable weather). abominably adv. [Latin abominor deprecate]
Abominable Snowman n. supposed manlike or bearlike Himalayan animal; yeti.
abominate v. (-ting) detest, loathe. abomination n. [Latin: related to *abominable]
aboriginal -adj. 1 indigenous, inhabiting a land from the earliest times, esp. before the arrival of colonists. 2 (usu. Aboriginal) of Australian Aborigines. -n. 1 aboriginal inhabitant. 2 (usu. Aboriginal) aboriginal inhabitant of Australia. [Latin: related to *origin]
aborigine n. (usu. in pl.) 1 aboriginal inhabitant. 2 (usu. Aborigine) aboriginal inhabitant of Australia.
Usage When referring to the people, Aboriginal is preferred for the singular form and Aborigines for the plural, although Aboriginals is also acceptable.
abort v. 1 miscarry. 2 a effect abortion of (a foetus). b effect abortion in (a mother). 3 end or cause (a project etc.) to end before completion. [Latin orior be born]
abortion n. 1 natural or (esp.) induced expulsion of a foetus from the womb before it is able to survive independently. 2 stunted or deformed creature or thing. 3 failed project or action. abortionist n.
abortive adj. fruitless, unsuccessful.
abound v. 1 be plentiful. 2 (foll. by in, with) be rich; teem. [Latin unda wave]
about -prep. 1 a on the subject of (a book about birds). b relating to (glad about it). c in relation to (symmetry about a plane). 2 at a time near to (about six). 3 a in, round (walked about the town; a scarf about her neck). b all round from a centre (look about you). 4 at points in (strewn about the house). 5 carried with (no money about me). 6 occupied with (about her business). -adv. 1 a approximately (about ten miles). b colloq. in an understatement (just about had enough). 2 nearby (a lot of flu about). 3 in every direction (look about). 4 on the move; in action (out and about). 5 in rotation or succession (turn and turn about). be about (or all about) colloq. have as its essential nature (life is all about having fun). be about to be on the point of (was about to laugh). [Old English]
about-face n. & int. = *about-turn, about turn.
about-turn -n. 1 turn made so as to face the opposite direction. 2 change of opinion or policy etc. -int. (about turn) Mil. command to make an about-turn.
above -prep. 1 over; on the top of; higher than; over the surface of (head above water; above the din). 2 more than (above twenty people). 3 higher in rank, importance, etc., than. 4 a too great or good for (not above cheating). b beyond the reach of (above my understanding; above suspicion). -adv. 1 at or to a higher point; overhead (the floor above; the sky above). 2 earlier on a page or in a book (as noted above). -adj. preceding (the above argument). -n. (prec. by the) preceding text (the above shows). above all most of all, more than anything else. above oneself conceited, arrogant. [Old English: related to *a2]
above-board adj. & adv. without concealment; open or openly.
abracadabra -int. supposedly magic word used in conjuring. -n. spell or charm. [Latin from Greek]
abrade v. (-ding) scrape or wear away (skin, rock, etc.) by rubbing. [Latin rado scrape]
abrasion n. 1 scraping or wearing away (of skin, rock, etc.). 2 resulting damaged area.
abrasive -adj. 1 a tending to rub or graze. b capable of polishing by rubbing or grinding. 2 harsh or hurtful in manner. -n. abrasive substance.
abreast adv. 1 side by side and facing the same way. 2 (foll. by of) up to date.
abridge v. (-ging) shorten (a book, film, etc.). abridgement n. [Latin: related to *abbreviate]
abroad adv. 1 in or to a foreign country or countries. 2 widely (scatter abroad). 3 in circulation (rumour abroad).
abrogate v. (-ting) repeal, abolish (a law etc.). abrogation n. [Latin rogo propose a law]
abrupt adj. 1 sudden, hasty (abrupt end). 2 (of manner etc.) curt. 3 steep, precipitous. abruptly adv. abruptness n. [Latin: related to *rupture]
abscess n. (pl. abscesses) swelling containing pus. [Latin: related to *ab-, *cede]
abscissa n. (pl. abscissae or -s) Math. (in a system of coordinates) shortest distance from a point to the vertical or y-axis. [Latin abscindo cut off]
abscond v. depart hurriedly and furtively, esp. to avoid arrest; escape. [Latin abscondo secrete]
abseil -v. descend by using a doubled rope coiled round the body and fixed at a higher point. -n. descent made by abseiling. [German ab down, Seil rope]
absence n. 1 being away. 2 time of this. 3 (foll. by of) lack of. absence of mind inattentiveness. [Latin absentia]
absent -adj. 1 not present. 2 not existing; lacking. 3 inattentive. -v.refl. go, or stay, away. absently adv. (in sense 3 of adj.).
absentee n. person not present.
absenteeism n. absenting oneself from work or school etc., esp. frequently or illicitly.
absentee landlord n. one who lets a property while living elsewhere.
absent-minded adj. forgetful or inattentive. absent-mindedly adv. absent-mindedness n.
absinth absinthe n. 1 wormwood. 2 (usu. absinthe) aniseed-flavoured liqueur based on this. [French from Latin]
absolute -adj. 1 complete, utter (absolute bliss). 2 unconditional (absolute authority). 3 despotic (absolute monarch). 4 not relative or comparative (absolute standard). 5 Gram. a (of a construction) syntactically independent of the rest of the sentence, as in dinner being over, we left the table. b (of an adjective or transitive verb) without an expressed noun or object (e.g. the deaf, guns kill). 6 (of a legal decree etc.) final. -n. Philos. (prec. by the) that which can exist independently of anything else. [Latin: related to *absolve]
absolutely adv. 1 completely, utterly. 2 in an absolute sense (God exists absolutely). 3 colloq. (used in reply) quite so; yes.
absolute majority n. majority over all rivals combined.
absolute pitch n. ability to recognize or sound any given note.
absolute temperature n. one measured from absolute zero.
absolute zero n. theoretical lowest possible temperature calculated as -273.15° C (or 0° K).
absolution n. formal forgiveness of sins.
absolutism n. principle or practice of absolute government. absolutist n.
absolve v. (-ving) (often foll. by from, of) set or pronounce free from blame or obligation etc. [Latin: related to *solve]
absorb v. 1 incorporate as part of itself or oneself. 2 take in, suck up (liquid, heat, knowledge, etc.). 3 reduce the effect or intensity of; deal easily with (an impact, sound, difficulty, etc.). 4 consume (resources etc.). 5 (often as absorbing adj.) engross the attention of. [Latin sorbeo suck in]
absorbent -adj. tending to absorb. -n. absorbent substance or organ.
absorption n. 1 absorbing or being absorbed. 2 mental engrossment. absorptive adj.
abstain v. 1 (usu. foll. by from) refrain from indulging (abstained from smoking). 2 decline to vote. [Latin teneo tent- hold]
abstemious adj. moderate or ascetic, esp. in eating and drinking. abstemiously adv. [Latin: related to *ab-, temetum strong drink]
abstention n. abstaining, esp. from voting. [Latin: related to *abstain]
abstinence n. abstaining, esp. from food or alcohol. abstinent adj. [French: related to *abstain]
abstract -adj. 1 a of or existing in thought or theory rather than matter or practice; not concrete. b (of a word, esp. a noun) denoting a quality, condition, etc., not a concrete object. 2 (of art) achieving its effect by form and colour rather than by realism. -v. 1 (often foll. by from) extract, remove. 2 summarize. -n. 1 summary. 2 abstract work of art. 3 abstraction or abstract term. [Latin: related to *tract1]
abstracted adj. inattentive, distracted. abstractedly adv.
abstraction n. 1 abstracting or taking away. 2 abstract or visionary idea. 3 abstract qualities (esp. in art). 4 absent-mindedness.
abstruse adj. hard to understand, profound. [Latin abstrudo -trus- conceal]
absurd adj. wildly illogical or inappropriate; ridiculous. absurdity n. (pl. -ies). absurdly adv. [Latin: related to *surd]
ABTA abbr. Association of British Travel Agents.
abundance n. 1 plenty; more than enough; a lot. 2 wealth. [Latin: related to *abound]
abundant adj. 1 plentiful. 2 (foll. by in) rich (abundant in fruit). abundantly adv.
abuse -v. (-sing) 1 use improperly, misuse. 2 insult verbally. 3 maltreat. -n. 1 misuse. 2 insulting language. 3 unjust or corrupt practice. 4 maltreatment (child abuse). abuser n. [Latin: related to *use]
abusive adj. insulting, offensive. abusively adv.
abut v. (-tt-) 1 (foll. by on) (of land) border on. 2 (foll. by on, against) (of a building) touch or lean upon (another). [Anglo-Latin butta strip of land: related to *butt1]
abutment n. lateral supporting structure of a bridge, arch, etc.
abuzz adv. & adj. in a state of excitement or activity.
abysmal adj. 1 colloq. extremely bad (abysmal food). 2 profound, utter (abysmal ignorance). abysmally adv. [Latin: related to *abyss]
abyss n. 1 deep chasm. 2 immeasurable depth (abyss of despair). [Latin from Greek, = bottomless]
AC abbr. 1 (also ac) alternating current. 2 aircraftman.
Ac symb. actinium.
a/c abbr. account. [account current]
-ac suffix forming adjectives often (or only) used as nouns (cardiac; maniac). [Latin -acus, Greek -akos]
acacia n. tree with yellow or white flowers, esp. one yielding gum arabic. [Latin from Greek]
academia n. the academic world; scholastic life.
academic -adj. 1 scholarly, of learning. 2 of no practical relevance; theoretical. -n. teacher or scholar in a university etc. academically adv.
academician n. member of an Academy. [French académicien]
academy n. (pl. -ies) 1 place of specialized training (military academy). 2 (usu. Academy) society or institution of distinguished scholars, artists, scientists, etc. (Royal Academy). 3 Scot. secondary school. [Greek akademeia the place in Athens where Plato taught]
acanthus n. (pl. -thuses) 1 herbaceous plant with spiny leaves. 2 Archit. representation of its leaf. [Latin from Greek]
a cappella adj. & adv. (of choral music) unaccompanied. [Italian, = in church style]
ACAS abbr. Advisory, Conciliation, and Arbitration Service.
accede v. (-ding) (foll. by to) 1 take office, esp. as monarch. 2 assent or agree. [Latin: related to *cede]
accelerate v. (-ting) move or cause to move or happen more quickly. acceleration n. [Latin: related to *celerity]
accelerator n. 1 device for increasing speed, esp. the pedal controlling the speed of a vehicle's engine. 2 Physics apparatus for imparting high speeds to charged particles.
accent -n. 1 particular (esp. local or national) mode of pronunciation. 2 distinctive feature or emphasis (accent on speed). 3 prominence given to a syllable by stress or pitch. 4 mark on a letter or word to indicate pitch, stress, or vowel quality. -v. 1 emphasize (a word or syllable etc.). 2 write or print accents on (words etc.). 3 accentuate. [Latin cantus song]
accentuate v. (-ting) emphasize, make prominent. accentuation n. [medieval Latin: related to *accent]
accept v. 1 (also absol.) willingly receive (a thing offered). 2 (also absol.) answer affirmatively (an offer etc.). 3 regard favourably; treat as welcome (felt accepted). 4 believe, receive (an opinion, explanation, etc.) as adequate or valid. 5 take as suitable (does accept cheques). 6 undertake (an office or duty). [Latin capio take]
acceptable adj. 1 worth accepting, welcome. 2 tolerable. acceptability n. acceptably adv. [French: related to *accept]
acceptance n. 1 willingness to accept. 2 affirmative answer to an invitation etc. 3 approval, belief (found wide acceptance).
access -n. 1 way of approach or entry (shop with rear access). 2 a right or opportunity to reach or use or visit; admittance (access to secret files, to the prisoner). b accessibility. 3 archaic outburst (an access of anger). -v. 1 Computing gain access to (data etc.). 2 accession. [French: related to *accede]
accessible adj. (often foll. by to) 1 reachable or obtainable; readily available. 2 easy to understand. accessibility n.
accession -n. 1 taking office, esp. as monarch. 2 thing added. -v. record the addition of (a new item) to a library etc.
accessory n. (pl. -ies) 1 additional or extra thing. 2 (usu. in pl.) small attachment, fitting, or subsidiary item of dress (e.g. shoes, gloves). 3 (often foll. by to) person who abets or is privy to an (esp. illegal) act. [medieval Latin: related to *accede]
access road n. road giving access only to the properties along it.
access time n. Computing time taken to retrieve data from storage.
accident n. 1 unfortunate esp. harmful event, caused unintentionally. 2 event that is unexpected or without apparent cause. by accident unintentionally. [Latin cado fall]
accidental -adj. happening by chance or accident. -n. Mus. sign indicating a note's momentary departure from the key signature. accidentally adv.
accident-prone adj. clumsy.
acclaim -v. 1 welcome or applaud enthusiastically. 2 hail as (acclaimed him king). -n. applause, welcome, public praise. [Latin acclamo: related to *claim]
acclamation n. 1 loud and eager assent. 2 (usu. in pl.) shouting in a person's honour.
acclimatize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) adapt to a new climate or conditions. acclimatization n. [French acclimater: related to *climate]
accolade n. 1 praise given. 2 touch made with a sword at the conferring of a knighthood. [Latin collum neck]
accommodate v. (-ting) 1 provide lodging or room for (flat accommodates two). 2 adapt, harmonize, reconcile (must accommodate himself to new ideas). 3 a do favour to, oblige (a person). b (foll. by with) supply (a person) with. [Latin: related to *commode]
accommodating adj. obliging, compliant.
accommodation n. 1 lodgings. 2 adjustment, adaptation. 3 convenient arrangement; settlement, compromise.
accommodation address n. postal address used by a person unable or unwilling to give a permanent address.
accompaniment n. 1 instrumental or orchestral support for a solo instrument, voice, or group. 2 accompanying thing. accompanist n. (in sense 1).
accompany v. (-ies, -ied) 1 go with; escort. 2 (usu. in passive; foll. by with, by) be done or found with; supplement. 3 Mus. partner with accompaniment. [French: related to *companion]
accomplice n. partner in a crime etc. [Latin: related to *complex]
accomplish v. succeed in doing; achieve, complete. [Latin: related to *complete]
accomplished adj. clever, skilled.
accomplishment n. 1 completion (of a task etc.). 2 acquired, esp. social, skill. 3 thing achieved.
accord -v. 1 (often foll. by with) be consistent or in harmony. 2 grant (permission, a request, etc.); give (a welcome etc.). -n. 1 agreement, consent. 2 Mus. & Art etc. harmony. of one's own accord on one's own initiative; voluntarily. with one accord unanimously. [Latin cor cord- heart]
accordance n. in accordance with in conformity to. accordant adj.
according adv. 1 (foll. by to) a as stated by (according to Mary). b in proportion to (lives according to his means). 2 (foll. by as + clause) in a manner or to a degree that varies as (pays according as he is able).
accordingly adv. 1 as circumstances suggest or require (please act accordingly). 2 consequently (accordingly, he left the room).
accordion n. musical reed instrument with concertina-like bellows, keys, and buttons. accordionist n. [Italian accordare to tune]
accost v. 1 approach and address (a person), esp. boldly. 2 (of a prostitute) solicit. [Latin costa rib]
account -n. 1 narration, description (an account of his trip). 2 arrangement at a bank etc. for depositing and withdrawing money, credit, etc. (open an account). 3 record or statement of financial transactions with the balance (kept detailed accounts). -v. consider as (account him wise, a fool). account for 1 serve as or provide an explanation for (that accounts for his mood). 2 answer for (money etc. entrusted, one's conduct, etc.). 3 kill, destroy, defeat. 4 make up a specified amount of (rent accounts for 50% of expenditure). by all accounts in everyone's opinion. call to account require an explanation from. give a good (or bad) account of oneself impress (or fail to impress); be successful (or unsuccessful). keep account of keep a record of; follow closely. of no account unimportant. of some account important. on account 1 (of goods) to be paid for later. 2 (of money) in part payment. on one's account on one's behalf (not on my account). on account of because of. on no account under no circumstances. take account of (or take into account) consider (took their age into account). turn to account (or good account) turn to one's advantage. [French: related to *count1]
accountable adj. 1 responsible; required to account for one's conduct. 2 explicable, understandable. accountability n.
accountant n. professional keeper or verifier of accounts. accountancy n. accounting n.
accouterments n.pl. (Brit. accoutrements) 1 equipment, trappings. 2 soldier's equipment excluding weapons and clothes. [French]
accoutrements n.pl. (US accouterments) 1 equipment, trappings. 2 soldier's equipment excluding weapons and clothes. [French]
accredit v. (-t-) 1 (foll. by to) attribute (a saying etc.) to (a person). 2 (foll. by with) credit (a person) with (a saying etc.). 3 (usu. foll. by to or at) send (an ambassador etc.) with credentials. 4 gain influence for or make credible (an adviser, a statement, etc.). [French: related to *credit]
accredited adj. 1 officially recognized. 2 generally accepted.
accretion n. 1 growth or increase by accumulation, addition, or organic enlargement. 2 the resulting whole. 3 a matter so added. b adhesion of this to the core matter. [Latin cresco cret- grow]
accrue v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) (often foll. by to) come as a natural increase or advantage, esp. financial. [Latin: related to *accretion]
accumulate v. (-ting) 1 acquire an increasing number or quantity of; amass, collect. 2 grow numerous; increase. [Latin: related to *cumulus]
accumulation n. 1 accumulating or being accumulated. 2 accumulated mass. 3 growth of capital by continued interest. accumulative adj.
accumulator n. 1 rechargeable electric cell. 2 bet placed on a sequence of events, with the winnings and stake from each placed on the next.
accuracy n. exactness or careful precision. [Latin cura care]
accurate adj. careful, precise; conforming exactly with the truth or a standard. accurately adv.
accursed adj. 1 under a curse. 2 colloq. detestable, annoying. [Old English a- intensive prefix, *curse]
accusation n. accusing or being accused. [French: related to *accuse]
accusative Gram. -n. case expressing the object of an action. -adj. of or in this case.
accusatory adj. of or implying accusation.
accuse v. (-sing) (often foll. by of) charge with a fault or crime; blame. [Latin accusare: related to *cause]
accustom v. (foll. by to) make used to (accustomed him to hardship). [French: related to *custom]
accustomed adj. 1 (usu. foll. by to) used to a thing. 2 customary, usual.
ace -n. 1 playing-card etc. with a single spot and generally signifying 'one'. 2 a person who excels in some activity. b pilot who has shot down many enemy aircraft. 3 (in tennis) unreturnable stroke (esp. a service). -adj. slang excellent. within an ace of on the verge of. [Latin as unity]
acellular adj. having no cells; not consisting of cells.
-aceous suffix forming adjectives in the sense 'of the nature of', esp. in the natural sciences (herbaceous). [Latin -aceus]
acerbic adj. harsh and sharp, esp. in speech or manner. acerbity n. (pl. -ies). [Latin acerbus sour]
acetaldehyde n. colourless volatile liquid aldehyde. [from *acetic, *aldehyde]
acetate n. 1 salt or ester of acetic acid, esp. the cellulose ester. 2 fabric made from this.
acetic adj. of or like vinegar. [Latin acetum vinegar]
acetic acid n. clear liquid acid giving vinegar its characteristic taste.
acetone n. colourless volatile liquid that dissolves organic compounds, esp. paints, varnishes, etc.
acetylene n. hydrocarbon gas burning with a bright flame, used esp. in welding.
ache -n. 1 continuous dull pain. 2 mental distress. -v. (-ching) suffer from or be the source of an ache. [Old English]
achieve v. (-ving) 1 reach or attain, esp. by effort (achieved victory; achieved notoriety). 2 accomplish (a feat or task). [French achever: related to *chief]
achievement n. 1 something achieved. 2 act of achieving.
Achilles heel n. person's weak or vulnerable point. [Achilles, Greek hero in the Iliad]
Achilles tendon n. tendon connecting the heel with the calf muscles.
achromatic adj. Optics 1 transmitting light without separation into constituent colours (achromatic lens). 2 without colour. achromatically adv. [French: related to *a-, *chrome]
achy adj. (-ier, -iest) full of or suffering from aches.
acid -n. 1 a any of a class of substances that liberate hydrogen ions in water, are usu. sour and corrosive, turn litmus red, and have a pH of less than 7. b any compound or atom donating protons. 2 any sour substance. 3 slang the drug LSD. -adj. 1 sour. 2 biting, sharp (an acid wit). 3 Chem. having the essential properties of an acid. acidic adj. acidify v. (-ies, -ied). acidity n. acidly adv. [Latin aceo be sour]
acid house n. a type of synthesized music with a simple repetitive beat, often associated with hallucinogenic drugs.
acid rain n. acid, esp. from industrial waste gases, falling with rain.
acid test n. severe or conclusive test.
acidulous adj. somewhat acid.
ack-ack colloq. -adj. anti-aircraft. -n. anti-aircraft gun etc. [formerly signallers' term for AA]
acknowledge v. (-ging) 1 recognize; accept the truth of (acknowledged its failure). 2 confirm the receipt of (a letter etc.). 3 a show that one has noticed (acknowledged my arrival with a grunt). b express appreciation of (a service etc.). 4 recognize the validity of, own (the acknowledged king). [from *ad-, *knowledge]
acknowledgement n. 1 act of acknowledging. 2 a thing given or done in gratitude. b letter confirming receipt of something. 3 (usu. in pl.) author's statement of gratitude, prefacing a book.
acme n. highest point (of achievement etc.). [Greek]
acne n. skin condition with red pimples. [Latin]
acolyte n. 1 person assisting a priest. 2 assistant; beginner. [Greek akolouthos follower]
aconite n. 1 any of various poisonous plants, esp. monkshood. 2 drug from these. [Greek akoniton]
acorn n. fruit of the oak, with a smooth nut in a cuplike base. [Old English]
acoustic adj. 1 of sound or the sense of hearing. 2 (of a musical instrument etc.) without electrical amplification (acoustic guitar). acoustically adv. [Greek akouo hear]
acoustics n.pl. 1 properties or qualities (of a room etc.) in transmitting sound. 2 (usu. as sing.) science of sound.
acquaint v. (usu. foll. by with) make aware of or familiar with (acquaint me with the facts). be acquainted with have personal knowledge of; know slightly. [Latin: related to *ad-, *cognizance]
acquaintance n. 1 being acquainted. 2 person one knows slightly. acquaintanceship n.
acquiesce v. (-cing) 1 agree, esp. by default. 2 (foll. by in) accept (an arrangement etc.). acquiescence n. acquiescent adj. [Latin: related to *ad-, *quiet]
acquire v. (-ring) gain for oneself; come into possession of. [Latin: related to *ad-, quaero quisit- seek]
acquired immune deficiency syndrome see *Aids.
acquired taste n. 1 liking developed by experience. 2 object of this.
acquirement n. thing acquired, esp. a mental attainment.
acquisition n. 1 thing acquired, esp. when useful. 2 acquiring or being acquired. [Latin: related to *acquire]
acquisitive adj. keen to acquire things.
acquit v. (-tt-) 1 (often foll. by of) declare not guilty. 2 refl. a behave or perform in a specified way (acquitted herself well). b (foll. by of) discharge (a duty or responsibility). acquittal n. [Latin: related to *ad-, *quit]
acre n. measure of land, 4,840 sq. yds., 0.405 ha. [Old English]
acreage n. a number of acres; extent of land.
acrid adj. (-er, -est) bitterly pungent. acridity n. [Latin acer keen, pungent]
acrimonious adj. bitter in manner or temper. acrimony n.
acrobat n. entertainer performing gymnastic feats. acrobatic adj. acrobatically adv. [Greek akrobates from akron summit, baino walk]
acrobatics n.pl. 1 acrobatic feats. 2 (as sing.) art of performing these.
acronym n. word formed from the initial letters of other words (e.g. laser, Nato). [Greek akron end, onoma name]
acropolis n. citadel of an ancient Greek city. [Greek akron summit, polis city]
across -prep. 1 to or on the other side of (across the river). 2 from one side to another side of (spread across the floor). 3 at or forming an angle with (a stripe across the flag). -adv. 1 to or on the other side (ran across). 2 from one side to another (stretched across). across the board applying to all. [French à, en, croix: related to *cross]
acrostic n. poem etc. in which certain letters (usu. the first and last in each line) form a word or words. [Greek akron end, stikhos row]
acrylic -adj. of synthetic material made from acrylic acid. -n. acrylic fibre or fabric. [Latin acer pungent, oleo to smell]
acrylic acid n. a pungent liquid organic acid.
act -n. 1 something done; a deed. 2 process of doing (caught in the act). 3 item of entertainment. 4 pretence (all an act). 5 main division of a play etc. 6 a decree of a legislative body. b document attesting a legal transaction. -v. 1 behave (acted wisely). 2 perform an action or function; take action (act as referee; brakes failed to act; he acted quickly). 3 (also foll. by on) have an effect (alcohol acts on the brain). 4 a perform a part in a play, film, etc. b pretend. 5 a play the part of (acted Othello; acts the fool). b perform (a play etc.). c portray (an incident) by actions. act for be the (esp. legal) representative of. act of God natural event, e.g. an earthquake. act up colloq. misbehave; give trouble (car is acting up). get one's act together slang become properly organized; prepare. put on an act colloq. make a pretence. [Latin ago act- do]
acting -n. art or occupation of an actor. -attrib. adj. serving temporarily or as a substitute (acting manager).
actinism n. property of short-wave radiation that produces chemical changes, as in photography. [Greek aktis ray]
actinium n. Chem. radioactive metallic element found in pitchblende. [as *actinism]
action n. 1 process of doing or acting (demanded action). 2 forcefulness or energy. 3 exertion of energy or influence (action of acid on metal). 4 deed, act (not aware of his actions). 5 (the action) a series of events in a story, play, etc. b slang exciting activity (missed the action). 6 battle, fighting (killed in action). 7 a mechanism of an instrument. b style of movement of an animal or human. 8 lawsuit. out of action not working. [Latin: related to *act]
actionable adj. giving cause for legal action.
action-packed adj. full of action or excitement.
action point n. proposal for action.
action replay n. playback of part of a television broadcast, esp. a sporting event, often in slow motion.
action stations n.pl. positions taken up by troops etc. ready for battle.
activate v. (-ting) 1 make active. 2 Chem. cause reaction in. 3 make radioactive.
active -adj. 1 marked by action; energetic; diligent (an active life). 2 working, operative (active volcano). 3 not merely passive or inert; positive (active support; active ingredients). 4 radioactive. 5 Gram. designating the form of a verb whose subject performs the action (e.g. saw in he saw a film). -n. Gram. active form or voice of a verb. actively adv. [Latin: related to *act]
active service n. military service in wartime.
activism n. policy of vigorous action, esp. for a political cause. activist n.
activity n. (pl. -ies) 1 being active; busy or energetic action. 2 (often in pl.) occupation or pursuit (outdoor activities). 3 = *radioactivity.
actor n. person who acts in a play, film, etc. [Latin: related to *act]
actress n. female actor.
actual adj. (usu. attrib.) 1 existing in fact; real. 2 current. [Latin: related to *act]
actuality n. (pl. -ies) 1 reality. 2 (in pl.) existing conditions.
actually adv. 1 as a fact, really (not actually very rich). 2 strange as it may seem (he actually refused!).
actuary n. (pl. -ies) statistician, esp. one calculating insurance risks and premiums. actuarial adj. [Latin actuarius bookkeeper]
actuate v. (-ting) 1 cause (a machine etc.) to move or function. 2 cause (a person) to act. [Latin]
acuity n. sharpness, acuteness. [medieval Latin: related to *acute]
acumen n. keen insight or discernment. [Latin, = *acute thing]
acupuncture n. medical treatment using needles in parts of the body. acupuncturist n. [Latin acu with needle]
acute -adj. (acuter, acutest) 1 serious, severe (acute hardship). 2 (of senses etc.) keen, penetrating. 3 shrewd. 4 (of a disease) coming quickly to a crisis. 5 (of an angle) less than 90°. 6 (of a sound) high, shrill. -n. = *acute accent. acutely adv. [Latin acutus pointed]
acute accent n. diacritical mark (´) placed over certain letters in French etc., esp. to show pronunciation.
-acy suffix forming nouns of state or quality (accuracy; piracy), or an instance of it (conspiracy; fallacy). [French -acie, Latin -acia, -atia, Greek -ateia]
AD abbr. of the Christian era. [*Anno Domini]
ad n. colloq. advertisement. [abbreviation]
ad- prefix (altered or assimilated before some letters) implying motion or direction to, reduction or change into, addition, adherence, increase, or intensification. [Latin]
adage n. traditional maxim, proverb. [French from Latin]
adagio Mus. -adv. & adj. in slow time. -n. (pl. -s) such a movement or passage. [Italian]
Adam n. the first man. not know a person from Adam be unable to recognize a person. [Hebrew, = man]
adamant adj. stubbornly resolute; unyielding. adamantly adv. [Greek adamas adamant- untameable]
Adam's apple n. projection of cartilage at the front of the neck.
adapt v. 1 a (foll. by to) fit, adjust (one thing to another). b (foll. by to, for) make suitable for a purpose. c modify (esp. a text for broadcasting etc.). 2 (also refl., usu. foll. by to) adjust to new conditions. adaptable adj. adaptation n. [Latin: related to *ad-, *apt]
adaptor n. 1 device for making equipment compatible. 2 device for connecting several electrical plugs to one socket.
add v. 1 join (one thing to another) as an increase or supplement. 2 put together (numbers) to find their total. 3 say further. add in include. add up 1 find the total of. 2 (foll. by to) amount to. 3 colloq. make sense. [Latin addo]
addendum n. (pl. -da) 1 thing to be added. 2 material added at the end of a book.
adder n. small venomous snake, esp. the common viper. [Old English, originally nadder]
addict n. 1 person addicted, esp. to a drug. 2 colloq. devotee (film addict). [Latin: related to *ad-, dico say]
addicted adj. 1 (usu. foll. by to) dependent on a drug etc. as a habit. 2 devoted to an interest. addiction n.
addictive adj. causing addiction.
addition n. 1 adding. 2 person or thing added. in addition (often foll. by to) also, as well (as). [Latin: related to *add]
additional adj. added, extra, supplementary. additionally adv.
additive n. substance added to improve another, esp. to colour, flavour, or preserve food. [Latin: related to *add]
addle v. (-ling) 1 muddle, confuse. 2 (usu. as addled adj.) (of an egg) become rotten. [Old English, = filth]
address -n. 1 a place where a person lives or an organization is situated. b particulars of this, esp. for postal purposes. c Computing location of an item of stored information. 2 discourse to an audience. -v. 1 write postal directions on (an envelope etc.). 2 direct (remarks etc.). 3 speak or write to, esp. formally. 4 direct one's attention to. 5 Golf take aim at (the ball). address oneself to 1 speak or write to. 2 attend to. [French: related to *ad-, *direct]
addressee n. person to whom a letter etc. is addressed.
adduce v. (-cing) cite as an instance or as proof or evidence. adducible adj. [Latin: related to *ad-, duco lead]
adenoids n.pl. area of enlarged lymphatic tissue between the nose and the throat, often hindering breathing in the young. adenoidal adj. [Greek aden gland]
adept -adj. (foll. by at, in) skilful. -n. adept person. [Latin adipiscor adept- attain]
adequate adj. sufficient, satisfactory. adequacy n. adequately adv. [Latin: related to *ad-, *equate]
à deux adv. & adj. for or between two. [French]
adhere v. (-ring) 1 (usu. foll. by to) stick fast to a substance etc. 2 (foll. by to) behave according to (a rule, undertaking, etc.). 3 (foll. by to) give allegiance. [Latin haereo stick]
adherent -n. supporter. -adj. sticking, adhering. adherence n.
adhesion n. 1 adhering. 2 unnatural union of body tissues due to inflammation.
adhesive -adj. sticky, causing adhesion. -n. adhesive substance. adhesiveness n.
ad hoc adv. & adj. for one particular occasion or use. [Latin]
adieu int. goodbye. [French, = to God]
ad infinitum adv. without limit; for ever. [Latin]
adipose adj. of fat; fatty (adipose tissue). adiposity n. [Latin adeps fat]
adjacent adj. (often foll. by to) lying near; adjoining. adjacency n. [Latin jaceo lie]
adjective n. word used to describe or modify a noun or pronoun. adjectival adj. [Latin jaceo lie]
adjoin v. be next to and joined with. [Latin jungo join]
adjourn v. 1 put off, postpone; break off (a meeting etc.) temporarily. 2 (of a meeting) break and disperse or (foll. by to) transfer to another place (adjourned to the pub). adjournment n. [Latin: related to *ad-, diurnum day]
adjudge v. (-ging) 1 pronounce judgement on (a matter). 2 pronounce or award judicially. adjudgement n. (also adjudgment). [Latin judex judge]
adjudicate v. (-ting) 1 act as judge in a competition, court, etc. 2 adjudge. adjudication n. adjudicative adj. adjudicator n.
adjunct n. 1 (foll. by to, of) subordinate or incidental thing. 2 Gram. word or phrase used to explain or amplify the predicate, subject, etc. [Latin: related to *adjoin]
adjure v. (-ring) (usu. foll. by to + infin.) beg or command. adjuration n. [Latin adjuro put to oath: related to *jury]
adjust v. 1 order or position; regulate; arrange. 2 (usu. foll. by to) become or make suited; adapt. 3 harmonize (discrepancies). 4 assess (loss or damages). adjustable adj. adjustment n. [Latin juxta near]
adjutant n. 1 a army officer assisting a superior in administrative duties. b assistant. 2 (in full adjutant bird) giant Indian stork. [Latin: related to *ad-, juvo jut- help]
ad lib -v. (-bb-) improvise. -adj. improvised. -adv. as one pleases, to any desired extent. [abbreviation of Latin ad libitum according to pleasure]
admin n. colloq. administration. [abbreviation]
administer v. 1 manage (business affairs etc.). 2 a deliver or dispense, esp. formally (a punishment, sacrament, etc.). b (usu. foll. by to) direct the taking of (an oath). [Latin: related to *ad-, *minister]
administrate v. (-ting) administer (esp. business affairs); act as an administrator.
administration n. 1 administering, esp. public affairs. 2 government in power.
administrative adj. of the management of affairs.
administrator n. manager of a business, public affairs, or a person's estate.
admirable adj. deserving admiration; excellent. admirably adv. [Latin: related to *admire]
admiral n. 1 a commander-in-chief of a navy. b high-ranking naval officer, commander. 2 any of various butterflies. [Arabic: related to *amir]
Admiralty n. (pl. -ies) (in full Admiralty Board) hist. committee superintending the Royal Navy.
admiration n. 1 respect; warm approval or pleasure. 2 object of this.
admire v. (-ring) 1 regard with approval, respect, or satisfaction. 2 express admiration of. admirer n. admiring adj. admirlingly adv. [Latin: related to *ad-, miror wonder at]
admissible adj. 1 (of an idea etc.) worth accepting or considering. 2 Law allowable as evidence. [Latin: related to *admit]
admission n. 1 acknowledgement (admission of error). 2 a process or right of entering. b charge for this (admission is £5).
admit v. (-tt-) 1 (often foll. by to be, or that + clause) acknowledge; recognize as true. 2 (foll. by to) confess to (a deed, fault, etc.). 3 allow (a person) entrance, access, etc. 4 take (a patient) into hospital. 5 (of an enclosed space) accommodate. 6 (foll. by of) allow as possible. [Latin mitto miss- send]
admittance n. admitting or being admitted, usu. to a place.
admittedly adv. as must be admitted.
admixture n. 1 thing added, esp. a minor ingredient. 2 adding of this.
admonish v. 1 reprove. 2 urge, advise. 3 (foll. by of) warn. admonishment n. admonition n. admonitory adj. [Latin moneo warn]
ad nauseam adv. excessively; disgustingly. [Latin, = to sickness]
ado n. fuss, busy activity; trouble. [from *at, *do1: originally in much ado = much to do]
adobe n. 1 sun-dried brick. 2 clay for making these. [Spanish]
adolescent -adj. between childhood and adulthood. -n. adolescent person. adolescence n. [Latin adolesco grow up]
Adonis n. handsome young man. [Latin, name of a youth loved by Venus]
adopt v. 1 legally take (a person) into a relationship, esp. another's child as one's own. 2 choose (a course of action etc.). 3 take over (another's idea etc.). 4 choose as a candidate for office. 5 accept responsibility for the maintenance of (a road etc.). 6 accept or approve (a report, accounts, etc.). adoption n. [Latin: related to *ad-, *opt]
adoptive adj. because of adoption (adoptive son). [Latin: related to *adopt]
adorable adj. 1 deserving adoration. 2 colloq. delightful, charming.
adore v. (-ring) 1 love intensely. 2 worship as divine. 3 colloq. like very much. adoration n. adorer n. [Latin adoro worship]
adorn v. add beauty to; decorate. adornment n. [Latin: related to *ad-, orno decorate]
adrenal -adj. 1 at or near the kidneys. 2 of the adrenal glands. -n. (in full adrenal gland) either of two ductless glands above the kidneys, secreting adrenalin. [from *ad-, *renal]
adrenalin n. (also adrenaline) 1 stimulative hormone secreted by the adrenal glands. 2 this extracted or synthesized for medicinal use.
adrift adv. & predic.adj. 1 drifting. 2 powerless; aimless. 3 colloq. a unfastened. b out of order, wrong (plans went adrift).
adroit adj. dexterous, skilful. [French à droit according to right]
adsorb v. (usu. of a solid) hold (molecules of a gas or liquid etc.) to its surface, forming a thin film. adsorbent adj. & n. adsorption n. [from *ad-, *absorb]
adulation n. obsequious flattery. [Latin adulor fawn on]
adult -adj. 1 mature, grown-up. 2 (attrib.) of or for adults (adult education). -n. adult person. adulthood n. [Latin adolesco adultus grow up]
adulterate v. (-ting) debase (esp. foods) by adding other substances. adulterant adj. & n. adulteration n. [Latin adultero corrupt]
adulterer n. (fem. adulteress) person who commits adultery.
adultery n. voluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and a person other than his or her spouse. adulterous adj.
adumbrate v. (-ting) 1 indicate faintly or in outline. 2 foreshadow. 3 overshadow. adumbration n. [Latin: related to *ad-, umbra shade]
advance -v. (-cing) 1 move or put forward; progress. 2 pay or lend (money) beforehand. 3 promote (a person, cause, etc.). 4 present (a suggestion etc.). 5 (as advanced adj.) a well ahead. b socially progressive. -n. 1 going forward; progress. 2 prepayment; loan. 3 (in pl.) amorous approaches. 4 rise in price. -attrib. adj. done or supplied beforehand (advance warning). advance on approach threateningly. in advance ahead in place or time. [Latin: related to *ab-, ante before]
advanced level n. high level of GCE examination.
advancement n. promotion of a person, cause, or plan.
advantage -n. 1 beneficial feature. 2 benefit, profit. 3 (often foll. by over) superiority. 4 (in tennis) the next point after deuce. -v. (-ging) benefit, favour. take advantage of 1 make good use of. 2 exploit, esp. unfairly. 3 euphem. seduce. advantageous adj. [French: related to *advance]
Advent n. 1 season before Christmas. 2 coming of Christ. 3 (advent) important arrival. [Latin adventus from venio come]
Adventist n. member of a Christian sect believing in the imminent second coming of Christ.
adventitious adj. 1 accidental, casual. 2 added from outside. 3 Biol. formed accidentally or under unusual conditions. [Latin: related to *Advent]
adventure -n. 1 unusual and exciting experience. 2 enterprise (spirit of adventure). -v. (-ring) dare, venture; engage in adventure. [Latin: related to *Advent]
adventure playground n. playground with climbing-frames, building blocks, etc.
adventurer n. (fem. adventuress) 1 person who seeks adventure, esp. for personal gain or enjoyment. 2 financial speculator.
adventurous adj. venturesome, enterprising.
adverb n. word indicating manner, degree, circumstance, etc., used to modify an adjective, verb, or other adverb (e.g. gently, quite, then). adverbial adj. [Latin: related to *ad-, verbum word, *verb]
adversary n. (pl. -ies) enemy, opponent.
adverse adj. unfavourable; harmful. adversely adv. [Latin: related to *ad-, verto vers- turn]
adversity n. misfortune, distress.
advert n. colloq. advertisement. [abbreviation]
advertise v. (-sing) 1 promote (goods or services) publicly to increase sales. 2 make generally known. 3 (often foll. by for) seek by a notice in a newspaper etc. to buy, employ, sell, etc. [French avertir: related to *adverse]
advertisement n. 1 public announcement, esp. of goods etc. for sale or wanted, vacancies, etc. 2 advertising. [French avertissement: related to *adverse]
advice n. 1 recommendation on how to act. 2 information given; news. 3 formal notice of a transaction.
advisable adj. to be recommended, expedient. advisability n.
advise v. (-sing) 1 (also absol.) give advice to. 2 recommend (advised me to rest). 3 (usu. foll. by of, or that + clause) inform. [Latin: related to *ad-, video vis- see]
advisedly adv. after due consideration; deliberately.
adviser n. (also advisor) person who advises, esp. officially.
Usage The variant advisor is fairly common, but is considered incorrect by many people.
advisory adj. giving advice (advisory body).
advocaat n. liqueur of eggs, sugar, and brandy. [Dutch, = *advocate]
advocacy n. support or argument for a cause, policy, etc.
advocate -n. 1 (foll. by of) person who supports or speaks in favour. 2 person who pleads for another, esp. in a lawcourt. -v. (-ting) recommend by argument. [Latin: related to *ad-, voco call]
adz n. (Brit adze) tool like an axe, with an arched blade at right angles to the handle. [Old English]
adze n. (US adz) tool like an axe, with an arched blade at right angles to the handle. [Old English]
aegis n. protection; support. [Greek aigis shield of Zeus or Athene]
aeolian harp n. stringed instrument or toy sounding when the wind passes through it. [Latin Aeolus wind-god, from Greek]
aeon n. (also eon) 1 long or indefinite period. 2 an age. [Latin from Greek]
aerate v. (-ting) 1 charge (a liquid) with carbon dioxide. 2 expose to air. aeration n. [Latin aer *air]
aerial -n. device for transmitting or receiving radio waves. -adj. 1 by or from the air; involving aircraft (aerial attack). 2 existing in the air. 3 of or like air. [Greek: related to *air]
aero- comb. form air; aircraft. [Greek aero- from aer air]
aerobatics n.pl. 1 spectacular flying of aircraft, esp. to entertain. 2 (as sing.) performance of these. [from *aero-, after *acrobatics]
aerobics n.pl. vigorous exercises designed to increase oxygen intake. aerobic adj. [from *aero-, Greek bios life]
aerodrome n. small airport or airfield. [from *aero-, Greek dromos course]
aerodynamics n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) dynamics of solid bodies moving through air. aerodynamic adj.
aerofoil n. structure with curved surfaces (e.g. a wing, fin, or tailplane) designed to give lift in flight.
aeronautics n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) science or practice of motion in the air. aeronautic adj. aeronautical adj. [from *aero-, *nautical]
aeroplane n. powered heavier-than-air flying vehicle with fixed wings. [French: related to *aero-, *plane1]
aerosol n. 1 pressurized container releasing a substance as a fine spray. 2 system of minute particles suspended in gas (e.g. fog or smoke). [from *aero-, *solution]
aerospace n. 1 earth's atmosphere and outer space. 2 aviation in this.
aesthete n. person who has or professes a special appreciation of beauty. [Greek aisthanomai perceive]
aesthetic -adj. 1 of or sensitive to beauty. 2 artistic, tasteful. -n. (in pl.) philosophy of beauty, esp. in art. aesthetically adv. aestheticism n.
aetiology n. (US etiology) study of causation or of the causes of disease. aetiological adj. [Greek aitia cause]
AF abbr. audio frequency.
afar adv. at or to a distance.
affable adj. 1 friendly. 2 courteous. affability n. affably adv. [Latin affabilis]
affair n. 1 matter, concern, or thing to be attended to (that is my affair). 2 a celebrated or notorious happening. b colloq. thing or event (puzzling affair). 3 = *love affair. 4 (in pl.) public or private business. [French à faire to do]
affect v. 1 a produce an effect on. b (of disease etc.) attack. 2 move emotionally. 3 pretend (affected ignorance). 4 pose as or use for effect (affects the aesthete; affects fancy hats). affecting adj. affectingly adv. [Latin afficio affect- influence] Usage Affect should not be confused with effect, meaning 'to bring about'. Note also that effect is used as a noun as well as a verb.
affectation n. 1 artificial manner. 2 (foll. by of) studied display. 3 pretence.
affected adj. 1 pretended, artificial. 2 full of affectation.
affection n. 1 goodwill, fond feeling. 2 disease; diseased condition.
affectionate adj. loving, fond. affectionately adv.
affidavit n. written statement confirmed by oath. [Latin, = has stated on oath]
affiliate -v. (-ting) (foll. by to, with) attach, adopt, or connect as a member or branch. -n. affiliated person etc. [Latin: related to *filial]
affiliation n. affiliating or being affiliated.
affiliation order n. legal order against the supposed father of an illegitimate child for support.
affinity n. (pl. -ies) 1 liking or attraction; feeling of kinship. 2 relationship, esp. by marriage. 3 similarity of structure or character suggesting a relationship. 4 Chem. the tendency of certain substances to combine with others. [Latin finis border]
affirm v. 1 assert, state as a fact. 2 Law make a solemn declaration in place of an oath. affirmation n. [Latin: related to *firm1]
affirmative -adj. affirming; expressing approval. -n. affirmative statement or word etc.
affix -v. 1 attach, fasten. 2 add in writing. -n. 1 addition. 2 Gram. prefix or suffix. [Latin: related to *fix]
afflict v. distress physically or mentally. [Latin fligo flict- strike down]
affliction n. 1 distress, suffering. 2 cause of this.
affluent adj. wealthy, rich. affluence n. [Latin: related to *fluent]
afford v. 1 (prec. by can or be able to) a have enough money, time, etc., for; be able to spare. b be in a position (can't afford to be critical). 2 provide (affords a view of the sea). [Old English ge- prefix implying completeness, *forth]
afforest v. 1 convert into forest. 2 plant with trees. afforestation n. [Latin: related to *forest]
affray n. breach of the peace by fighting or rioting in public. [Anglo-French = 'remove from peace']
affront -n. open insult. -v. insult openly; offend, embarrass. [Latin: related to *front]
Afghan -n. 1 a native or national of Afghanistan. b person of Afghan descent. 2 official language of Afghanistan. -adj. of Afghanistan. [Pashto]
Afghan hound n. tall hunting dog with long silky hair.
aficionado n. (pl. -s) devotee of a sport or pastime. [Spanish]
afield adv. to or at a distance (esp. far afield). [Old English: related to *a2]
aflame adv. & predic.adj. 1 in flames. 2 very excited.
afloat adv. & predic.adj. 1 floating. 2 at sea. 3 out of debt or difficulty. 4 current. [Old English: related to *a2]
afoot adv. & predic.adj. in operation; progressing.
afore prep. & adv. archaic before; previously; in front (of). [Old English: related to *a2]
afore- comb. form before, previously (aforementioned; aforesaid).
afore- comb. form before, previously (aforementioned; aforesaid).
aforethought adj. premeditated (following a noun: malice aforethought).
afraid predic. adj. alarmed, frightened. be afraid colloq. politely regret (I'm afraid we're late). [originally past part. of *affray]
afresh adv. anew; with a fresh beginning. [earlier of fresh]
African -n. 1 native (esp. dark-skinned) of Africa. 2 person of African descent. -adj. of Africa. [Latin]
African elephant n. the elephant of Africa, larger than that of India.
African violet n. house-plant with velvety leaves and blue, purple, or pink flowers.
Afrikaans n. language derived from Dutch, used in S. Africa. [Dutch, = 'African']
Afrikaner n. Afrikaans-speaking White person in S. Africa, esp. of Dutch descent.
Afro -adj. (of hair) tightly-curled and bushy. -n. (pl. -s) Afro hairstyle.
Afro- comb. form African.
Afro-American -adj. of American Blacks or their culture. -n. American Black.
Afro-Caribbean -n. Caribbean person of African descent. -adj. of Afro-Caribbeans.
aft adv. Naut. & Aeron. at or towards the stern or tail. [earlier baft]
after -prep. 1 following in time; later than (after a week). 2 in view of, in spite of (after what you did what do you expect?; after all my efforts I still lost). 3 behind (shut the door after you). 4 in pursuit or quest of (run after them). 5 about, concerning (asked after her). 6 in allusion to (named after the prince). 7 in imitation of (a painting after Rubens). 8 next in importance to (best one after mine). -conj. later than (left after they arrived). -adv. 1 later (soon after). 2 behind (followed on after). -adj. 1 later, following (in after years). 2 Naut. nearer the stern (after cabins). after all in spite of everything (after all, what does it matter?). after one's own heart to one's taste. [Old English]
afterbirth n. placenta etc. discharged from the womb after childbirth.
after-care n. attention after leaving hospital etc.
after-effect n. delayed effect following an accident, trauma, etc.
afterglow n. glow remaining after its source has disappeared.
afterlife n. life after death.
aftermath n. 1 consequences, esp. unpleasant (aftermath of war). 2 new grass growing after mowing. [from *after, math mowing]
afternoon n. time from noon or lunch-time to evening.
afterpains n.pl. pains caused by contraction of the womb after childbirth.
afters n.pl. colloq. = *dessert 1.
aftershave n. lotion used after shaving.
aftertaste n. taste after eating or drinking.
afterthought n. thing thought of or added later.
afterward adv. (Brit. afterwards) later, subsequently. [Old English: related to *after, *-ward]
afterwards adv. (US afterward) later, subsequently. [Old English: related to *after, *-ward]
Ag symb. silver. [Latin argentum]
again adv. 1 another time; once more. 2 as previously (home again; well again). 3 in addition (as much again). 4 further, besides (again, what about you?). 5 on the other hand (I might, and again I might not). again and again repeatedly. [Old English]
against prep. 1 in opposition to (fight against crime). 2 into collision or in contact with (lean against the wall). 3 to the disadvantage of (my age is against me). 4 in contrast to (against a dark background). 5 in anticipation of (against his coming; against the cold). 6 as a compensating factor to (income against expenditure). 7 in return for (issued against payment of the fee). against the grain see *grain. against time see *time. [from *again, with inflectional -s]
agape predic. adj. gaping, open-mouthed. [from *a2]
agaric n. fungus with a cap and stalk, e.g. the common mushroom. [Greek agarikon]
agate n. hard usu. streaked chalcedony. [Greek akhates]
agave n. plant with rosettes of narrow spiny leaves and flowers on tall stem. [Agave, name of a woman in Greek mythology]
age -n. 1 length of time that a person or thing has existed. 2 a colloq. (often in pl.) a long time (waited for ages). b distinct historical period (Bronze Age). 3 old age. -v. (ageing) 1 show or cause to show signs of advancing age. 2 grow old. 3 mature. come of age reach adult status (esp. Law at 18, formerly 21). [Latin aetas]
-age suffix forming nouns denoting: 1 action (breakage). 2 condition (bondage). 3 aggregate or number (coverage; acreage). 4 cost (postage). 5 result (wreckage). 6 place or abode (anchorage; orphanage). [Latin -aticus]
aged adj. 1 (predic.) of the age of (aged 3). 2 old.
ageism n. prejudice or discrimination on grounds of age. ageist adj. & n.
ageless adj. 1 never growing or appearing old. 2 eternal.
agelong adj. existing for a very long time.
agency n. (pl. -ies) 1 business or premises of an agent. 2 action; intervention (free agency; by the agency of God). [Latin: related to *act]
agenda n. (pl. -s) 1 list of items to be considered at a meeting. 2 things to be done.
agent n. 1 a person who acts for another in business etc. b spy. 2 person or thing that exerts power or produces an effect.
agent provocateur n. (pl. agents provocateurs pronunc. same) person used to tempt suspected offenders to self-incriminating action. [French, = provocative agent]
age of consent n. age at which consent to sexual intercourse is valid in law.
age-old adj. very long-standing.
agglomerate -v. (-ting) collect into a mass. -n. mass, esp. of fused volcanic fragments. -adj. collected into a mass. agglomeration n. [Latin glomus -meris ball]
agglutinate v. (-ting) stick as with glue. agglutination n. agglutinative adj. [Latin: related to *gluten]
aggrandize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 increase the power, rank or wealth of. 2 make seem greater. aggrandizement n. [French: related to *grand]
aggravate v. (-ting) 1 make worse or more serious. 2 annoy. aggravation n. [Latin gravis heavy]
Usage The use of aggravate in sense 2 is regarded by some people as incorrect, but it is common in informal use.
aggregate -n. 1 sum total, amount assembled. 2 crushed stone etc. used in making concrete. 3 rock formed of a mass of different particles or minerals. -adj. combined, collective, total. -v. (-ting) 1 collect, combine into one mass. 2 colloq. amount to. 3 unite. in the aggregate as a whole. aggregation n. aggregative adj. [Latin grex greg- flock]
aggression n. 1 unprovoked attacking or attack. 2 hostile or destructive behaviour. [Latin gradior gress- walk]
aggressive adj. 1 given to aggression; hostile. 2 forceful, self-assertive. aggressively adv.
aggressor n. person or party that attacks without provocation.
aggrieved adj. having a grievance. [French: related to *grief]
aggro n. slang 1 aggressive hostility. 2 trouble, difficulty. [abbreviation of aggravation or aggression]
aghast predic. adj. filled with dismay or consternation. [past part. of obsolete (a)gast frighten]
agile adj. quick-moving, nimble, active. agility n. [Latin agilis: related to *act]
agitate v. (-ting) 1 disturb or excite (a person or feelings). 2 (often foll. by for, against) campaign, esp. politically (agitated for tax reform). 3 shake briskly. agitation n. agitator n. [Latin agito: related to *act]
aglow predic. adj. glowing.
AGM abbr. annual general meeting.
agnail n. piece of torn skin at the root of a fingernail; resulting soreness. [Old English, = tight (metal) nail, hard excrescence in flesh]
agnostic -n. person who believes that the existence of God is not provable. -adj. of agnosticism. agnosticism n. [from *a-, *gnostic]
ago adv. (prec. by duration) earlier, in the past. [originally agone = gone by]
agog predic. adj. eager, expectant. [French gogue fun]
agonize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 undergo (esp. mental) anguish; suffer or cause to suffer agony. 2 (as agonized adj.) expressing agony (an agonized look).
agony n. (pl. -ies) 1 extreme mental or physical suffering. 2 severe struggle. [Greek agon struggle]
agony aunt n. colloq. person (esp. a woman) who answers letters in an agony column.
agony column n. colloq. 1 column in a magazine etc. offering personal advice to correspondents. 2 = *personal column.
agoraphobia n. abnormal fear of open spaces or public places. agoraphobic adj. & n. [Greek agora market-place]
agrarian -adj. 1 of the land or its cultivation. 2 of landed property. -n. advocate of the redistribution of land. [Latin ager field]
agree v. (-ees, -eed, -eeing) 1 hold the same opinion (I agree with you). 2 consent (agreed to go). 3 (often foll. by with) a become or be in harmony. b suit (fish didn't agree with him). c Gram. have the same number, gender, case, or person as. 4 reach agreement about (agreed a price). 5 (foll. by on) decide mutually on (agreed on a compromise). be agreed be of one opinion. [Latin: related to *ad-, gratus pleasing]
agreeable adj. 1 pleasing, pleasant. 2 willing to agree. agreeably adv.
agreement n. 1 act or state of agreeing. 2 arrangement or contract.
agriculture n. cultivation of the soil and rearing of animals. agricultural adj. agriculturalist n. [Latin ager field]
agrimony n. (pl. -ies) perennial plant with small yellow flowers. [Greek argemone poppy]
agronomy n. science of soil management and crop production. agronomist n. [Greek agros land]
aground predic. adj. & adv. on or on to the bottom of shallow water (run aground).
ague n. 1 hist. malarial fever. 2 shivering fit. [Latin: related to *acute]
AH abbr. in the year of the Hegira (AD 622); of the Muslim era. [Latin anno Hegirae]
ah int. expressing surprise, pleasure, realization, etc. [French a]
aha int. expressing surprise, triumph, mockery, etc. [from *ah, *ha1]
ahead adv. 1 further forward in space or time. 2 in the lead (ahead on points).
ahem int. used to attract attention, gain time, etc. [from *hem2]
ahoy int. Naut. call used in hailing. [from *ah, *hoy]
AI abbr. 1 artificial insemination. 2 artificial intelligence.
AID abbr. artificial insemination by donor.
aid -n. 1 help. 2 person or thing that helps. -v. 1 help. 2 promote (sleep will aid recovery). in aid of 1 in support of. 2 colloq. for the purpose of (what's it all in aid of?). [Latin: related to *ad-, juvo help]
aide n. 1 aide-de-camp. 2 esp. US assistant. [French]
aide-de-camp n. (pl. aides-de-camp pronunc. same) officer assisting a senior officer. [French]
Aids n. (also AIDS) acquired immune deficiency syndrome, an often fatal viral syndrome marked by severe loss of resistance to infection. [abbreviation]
ail v. 1 archaic (only in 3rd person interrog. or indefinite constructions) trouble or afflict (what ails him?). 2 (usu. be ailing) be ill. [Old English]
aileron n. hinged flap on an aeroplane wing. [French aile wing]
ailing adj. 1 ill. 2 in poor condition.
ailment n. minor illness or disorder.
aim -v. 1 intend or try; attempt (aim at winning; aim to win). 2 (usu. foll. by at) direct or point (a weapon, remark, etc.). 3 take aim. -n. 1 purpose or object. 2 the directing of a weapon etc. at an object. take aim direct a weapon etc. at a target. [Latin aestimare reckon]
aimless adj. without aim or purpose. aimlessly adv.
ain't contr. colloq. 1 am, is, or are not. 2 have or has not.
Usage The use of ain't is usually regarded as unacceptable in spoken and written English.
air -n. 1 mixture mainly of oxygen and nitrogen surrounding the earth. 2 earth's atmosphere; open space in it; this as a place for flying aircraft. 3 a distinctive impression or manner (air of mystery). b (esp. in pl.) pretentiousness (gave himself airs). 4 tune. 5 light wind. -v. 1 expose (clothes, a room, etc.) to fresh air or warmth to remove damp. 2 express and discuss publicly (an opinion, question, grievance, etc.). by air by or in an aircraft. in the air 1 (of opinions etc.) prevalent. 2 (of plans etc.) uncertain. on (or off) the air being (or not being) broadcast. [Greek aer]
airbase n. base for military aircraft.
air-bed n. inflatable mattress.
airborne adj. 1 transported by air. 2 (of aircraft) in the air after taking off.
air-brick n. perforated brick used for ventilation.
Airbus n. propr. short-haul passenger aircraft.
Air Chief Marshal n. RAF officer of high rank, above Air Marshal.
Air Commodore n. RAF officer next above Group Captain.
air-conditioning n. 1 system for regulating the humidity, ventilation, and temperature in a building. 2 apparatus for this. air-conditioned adj.
aircraft n. (pl. same) machine capable of flight, esp. an aeroplane or helicopter.
aircraft-carrier n. warship carrying and used as a base for aircraft.
aircraftman n. lowest rank in the RAF.
aircraftwoman n. lowest rank in the WRAF.
aircrew n. crew of an aircraft.
air-cushion n. 1 inflatable cushion. 2 layer of air supporting a hovercraft etc.
Airedale n. large terrier of a rough-coated breed. [Airedale in Yorkshire]
airer n. stand for airing or drying clothes etc.
airfield n. area with runway(s) for aircraft.
air force n. branch of the armed forces fighting in the air.
airgun n. gun using compressed air to fire pellets.
airhead n. slang stupid or foolish person.
air hostess n. stewardess in a passenger aircraft.
airless adj. stuffy; still, calm.
air letter n. sheet of light paper forming a letter for sending by airmail.
airlift -n. emergency transport of supplies etc. by air. -v. transport thus.
airline n. public air transport system or company.
airliner n. large passenger aircraft.
airlock n. 1 stoppage of the flow by an air bubble in a pump or pipe. 2 compartment permitting movement between areas at different pressures.
airmail n. 1 system of transporting mail by air. 2 mail carried by air.
airman n. pilot or member of an aircraft crew, esp. in an air force.
Air Marshal n. RAF officer of high rank, above Air Vice-Marshal.
airplane n. US = *aeroplane.
air pocket n. apparent vacuum causing an aircraft to drop suddenly.
airport n. airfield with facilities for passengers and goods.
air raid n. attack by aircraft on ground targets.
air rifle n. rifle using compressed air to fire pellets.
airs and graces n.pl. affected manner.
airscrew n. aircraft propeller.
airship n. power-driven aircraft lighter than air.
airsick adj. nauseous from air travel.
airspace n. air above a country and subject to its jurisdiction.
air speed n. aircraft's speed relative to the air.
airstrip n. strip of ground for the take-off and landing of aircraft.
air terminal n. building with transport to and from an airport.
airtight adj. impermeable to air.
air traffic controller n. official who controls air traffic by radio.
Air Vice-Marshal n. RAF officer of high rank, just below Air Marshal.
airwaves n.pl. colloq. radio waves used in broadcasting.
airway n. recognized route of aircraft.
airwoman n. woman pilot or member of an aircraft crew, esp. in an air force.
airworthy adj. (of an aircraft) fit to fly.
airworthy adj. (of an aircraft) fit to fly.
airy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 well-ventilated, breezy. 2 flippant, superficial. 3 light as air. 4 ethereal. airily adv.
airy-fairy adj. colloq. unrealistic, impractical.
aisle n. 1 the part of a church on either side of the nave, divided from it by pillars. 2 passage between rows of pews, seats, etc. [Latin ala wing]
aitch n. the letter H. [French ache]
aitchbone n. 1 rump bone of an animal. 2 cut of beef over this. [originally nache-bone from Latin natis buttock]
ajar adv. & predic.adj. (of a door) slightly open. [from *a2, obsolete char from Old English cerr a turn]
Akela n. adult leader of Cub Scouts. [name of the leader of the wolf-pack in Kipling's Jungle Book]
akimbo adv. (of the arms) with hands on the hips and elbows turned outwards. [originally in kenebowe, probably from Old Norse]
akin predic. adj. 1 related by blood. 2 similar.
Al symb. aluminium.
-al suffix 1 (also -ial) forming adjectives meaning 'relating to, of the kind of' (central; tidal; dictatorial). 2 forming nouns, esp. of verbal action (removal). [Latin -alis]
à la prep. in the manner of (à la russe). [French from *à la mode]
alabaster -n. translucent usu. white form of gypsum, used for carving etc. -adj. 1 of alabaster. 2 white or smooth. [Greek alabastros]
à la carte adv. & adj. with individually priced dishes. [French]
alacrity n. briskness; cheerful readiness. [Latin alacer brisk]
à la mode adv. & adj. in fashion; fashionable. [French]
alarm -n. 1 warning of danger etc. 2 a warning sound or device. b = *alarm clock. 3 apprehension (filled with alarm). -v. 1 frighten or disturb. 2 warn. alarming adj. alarmingly adv. [Italian all'arme! to arms]
alarm clock n. clock that rings at a set time.
alarmist n. person stirring up alarm.
alas int. expressing grief, pity, or concern. [French: related to *ah, Latin lassus weary]
alb n. long white vestment worn by Christian priests. [Latin albus white]
albatross n. 1 a long-winged, stout-bodied bird related to the petrel. b encumbrance. 2 Golf score of three strokes under par at any hole. [alteration of alcatras, from Spanish and Portuguese alcatraz from Arabic, = the jug]
albeit conj. literary though. [all be it]
albino n. (pl. -s) 1 person or animal lacking pigment in the skin and hair (which are white), and the eyes (usu. pink). 2 plant lacking normal colouring. albinism n. [Spanish and Portuguese: related to *alb]
album n. 1 book for photographs, stamps, etc. 2 a long-playing gramophone record. b set of these. [Latin, = blank tablet, from albus white]
albumen n. 1 egg-white. 2 substance found between the skin and germ of many seeds, usu. the edible part. [Latin: related to *album]
albumin n. water-soluble protein found in egg-white, milk, blood, etc. albuminous adj.
alchemy n. medieval chemistry, esp. seeking to turn base metals into gold. alchemist n. [Arabic]
alcohol n. 1 (in full ethyl alcohol) colourless volatile inflammable liquid, esp. as the intoxicant in wine, beer, spirits, etc., and as a solvent, fuel, etc. 2 liquor containing this. 3 Chem. any of many organic compounds containing one or more hydroxyl groups attached to carbon atoms. [Arabic: related to *kohl]
alcoholic -adj. of, like, containing, or caused by alcohol. -n. person suffering from alcoholism.
alcoholism n. condition resulting from addiction to alcohol.
alcove n. recess, esp. in the wall of a room. [Arabic, = the vault]
aldehyde n. Chem. any of a class of compounds formed by the oxidation of alcohols. [from *alcohol, *de-, *hydrogen]
al dente adj. (of pasta etc.) cooked so as to be still firm when bitten. [Italian, = 'to the tooth']
alder n. tree related to the birch. [Old English]
alderman n. esp. hist. co-opted member of an English county or borough council, next in dignity to the mayor. [Old English aldor chief, *man]
ale n. beer. [Old English]
aleatory adj. depending on chance. [Latin alea *die2]
alehouse n. hist. tavern.
alembic n. 1 hist. apparatus formerly used in distilling. 2 means of refining or extracting. [Greek ambix, -ikos cap of a still]
alert -adj. 1 watchful, vigilant. 2 nimble, attentive. -n. 1 warning call or alarm. 2 state or period of special vigilance. -v. (often foll. by to) warn. [French alerte from Italian all'erta to the watch-tower]
A level n. = *advanced level.
Alexander technique n. technique for controlling posture as an aid to well-being. [Alexander, name of a physiotherapist]
alexandrine -adj. (of a line of verse) having six iambic feet. -n. alexandrine line. [French Alexandre, title of a romance using this metre]
alfalfa n. clover-like plant used for fodder. [Arabic, = a green fodder]
alfresco adv. & adj. in the open air. [Italian]
alga n. (pl. algae) (usu. in pl.) non-flowering stemless water-plant, esp. seaweed and plankton. [Latin]
algebra n. branch of mathematics that uses letters etc. to represent numbers and quantities. algebraic adj. [ultimately from Arabic al-jabr, = reunion of broken parts]
Algol n. high-level computer programming language. [from *algorithm, *language]
algorithm n. process or set of rules used for calculation etc., esp. with a computer. algorithmic adj. [Persian, name of a 9th-c. mathematician al-Kuwarizmi]
alias -adv. also named or known as. -n. assumed name. [Latin, = at another time]
alibi n. (pl. -s) 1 claim or proof that one was elsewhere when a crime etc. was committed. 2 informal excuse. [Latin, = elsewhere]
Usage The use of alibi in sense 2 is considered incorrect by some people.
alien -adj. 1 (often foll. by to) unfamiliar; unacceptable or repugnant. 2 foreign. 3 of beings from other worlds. -n. 1 foreign-born resident who is not naturalized. 2 being from another world. [Latin alius other]
alienable adj. Law able to be transferred to new ownership.
alienate v. (-ting) 1 estrange, make hostile. 2 transfer ownership of. alienation n.
alight1 predic. adj. 1 on fire. 2 lit up; excited. [on a light (= lighted) fire]
alight2 v. 1 (often foll. by from) descend from a vehicle. 2 come to earth, settle. [Old English]
align v. 1 put or bring into line. 2 (usu. foll. by with) ally (oneself etc.) with (a cause, party, etc.). alignment n. [French à ligne into line]
alike -adj. (usu. predic.) similar, like. -adv. in a similar way.
alimentary adj. of or providing food or nourishment. [Latin alo nourish]
alimentary canal n. passage along which food passes during digestion.
alimony n. money payable to a spouse or former spouse after separation or divorce.
Usage In UK usage this term has been replaced by maintenance.
aliphatic adj. Chem. of organic compounds in which carbon atoms form open chains, not aromatic rings. [Greek aleiphar -phat- fat]
aliquot -adj. (of a part or portion) contained by the whole an integral number of times (4 is an aliquot part of 12). -n. 1 aliquot part. 2 (in general use) any known fraction of a whole; sample. [Latin, = several]
alive adj. (usu. predic.) 1 living. 2 lively, active. 3 (foll. by to) aware of; alert. 4 (foll. by with) swarming or teeming with. [Old English: related to *a2, *life]
alkali n. (pl. -s) 1 a any of a class of substances that liberate hydroxide ions in water, usu. form caustic or corrosive solutions, turn litmus blue, and have a pH of more than 7, e.g. caustic soda. b similar but weaker substance, e.g. sodium carbonate. 2 Chem. any substance that reacts with or neutralizes hydrogen ions. alkaline adj. alkalinity n. [Arabic, = the calcined ashes]
alkaloid n. nitrogenous organic compound of plant origin, e.g. morphine, quinine.
alkane n. Chem. saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon having the general formula CnH2n+2, including methane and ethane.
alkene n. Chem. unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbon containing a double bond and having the general formula CnH2n, including ethylene.
alkyne n. Chem. unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbon containing a triple bond and having the general formula CnH2n-2, including acetylene.
all -adj. 1 whole amount, quantity, or extent of (all day; all his life; take it all). 2 any whatever (beyond all doubt). 3 greatest possible (with all speed). -n. 1 all concerned; everything (all were present; all is lost). 2 (foll. by of) a the whole of (take all of it). b every one of (all of us). c colloq. as much as (all of six feet). d colloq. in a state of (all of a dither). 3 one's whole strength or resources (prec. by my, your, etc.). 4 (in games) each (two goals all). -adv. 1 a entirely, quite (dressed all in black). b as an intensifier (stop all this grumbling). 2 colloq. very (went all shy). 3 (foll. by the + compar.) to that, or the utmost, extent (if they go, all the better; that makes it all the worse). all along from the beginning. all and sundry everyone. all but very nearly. all for colloq. strongly in favour of. all found with board and lodging provided free. all in colloq. exhausted. all in all everything considered. all manner of every kind of. all of a sudden suddenly. all one (or the same) (usu. foll. by to) a matter of indifference. all out using all one's strength (also (with hyphen) attrib.: all-out effort). all over 1 completely finished. 2 in or on all parts of (mud all over the carpet). 3 colloq. typically (you all over). 4 slang effusively attentive to (a person). all right (predic.) 1 satisfactory; safe and sound; in good condition. 2 satisfactorily (it worked out all right). 3 a expressing consent. b as an intensifier (that's the one all right). all round 1 in all respects. 2 for each person. all the same nevertheless. all there colloq. mentally alert or normal. all the time throughout (despite some contrary expectation etc.). all together all at once; all in one place or in a group (came all together) (cf. *altogether). all up with hopeless for (a person). at all (with neg. or interrog.) in any way; to any extent (did not swim at all; did you like it at all?). in all in total; altogether. [Old English]
Usage Note the differences in meaning between all together and altogether: see note at altogether.
Allah n. the Muslim and Arab name of God. [Arabic]
allay v. 1 diminish (fear, suspicion, etc.). 2 alleviate (pain etc.). [Old English a- intensive prefix, *lay1]
all-clear n. signal that danger etc. is over.
all comers n.pl. anyone who applies, takes up a challenge, etc.
allegation n. 1 assertion, esp. unproved. 2 alleging. [Latin allego adduce]
allege v. (-ging) 1 declare, esp. without proof. 2 advance as an argument or excuse. [Latin lis lit- lawsuit]
allegedly adv. as is alleged.
allegiance n. 1 loyalty (to a person or cause etc.). 2 the duty of a subject. [French: related to *liege]
allegory n. (pl. -ies) story whose moral is represented symbolically. allegorical adj. allegorize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). [Greek allegoria other speaking]
allegretto Mus. -adv. & adj. in a fairly brisk tempo. -n. (pl. -s) such a passage or movement. [Italian, diminutive of *allegro]
allegro Mus. -adv. & adj. in a brisk tempo. -n. (pl. -s) such a passage or movement. [Italian, = lively]
alleluia (also hallelujah) -int. God be praised. -n. song or shout of praise to God. [Hebrew]
Allen key n. propr. spanner designed to turn an Allen screw. [Allen, name of the US manufacturer]
Allen screw n. propr. screw with a hexagonal socket in the head.
allergic adj. 1 (foll. by to) a having an allergy to. b colloq. having a strong dislike for. 2 caused by an allergy.
allergy n. (pl. -ies) 1 adverse reaction to certain substances, esp. particular foods, pollen, fur, or dust. 2 colloq. antipathy. [Greek allos other]
alleviate v. (-ting) make (pain etc.) less severe. alleviation n. [Latin levo raise]
alley n. (pl. -s) 1 narrow street or passageway. 2 enclosure for skittles, bowling, etc. 3 walk or lane in a park etc. [French aller go]
alliance n. 1 union or agreement to cooperate, esp. of States by treaty or families by marriage. 2 (Alliance) political coalition party. 3 relationship; friendship. [French: related to *ally]
allied adj. 1 (also Allied) associated in an alliance. 2 connected or related.
alligator n. large reptile of the crocodile family with a head broader and shorter than a crocodile's. [Spanish el lagarto the lizard]
all-in attrib. adj. inclusive of all.
all-in wrestling n. wrestling with few or no restrictions.
alliteration n. repetition of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words (e.g. cool, calm, and collected). alliterate v. (-ting). alliterative adj. [Latin: related to *letter]
allocate v. (-ting) (usu. foll. by to) assign or devote to (a purpose, person, or place). allocation n. [Latin: related to *local]
allot v. (-tt-) apportion or distribute to (a person), esp. as a share or task (they were allotted equal sums). [French a to, *lot]
allotment n. 1 small piece of land rented by a local authority for cultivation. 2 share. 3 allotting.
allotropy n. existence of two or more different physical forms of a chemical element. allotropic adj. [Greek allos different, tropos manner]
allow v. 1 (often foll. by to + infin.) permit. 2 assign a limited amount etc. (was allowed £500). 3 (usu. foll. by for) provide or set aside for a purpose; add or deduct in consideration (allow £50 for expenses; allow for wastage). [originally = commend, from French: related to *ad-, Latin laudo praise, loco place]
allowance n. 1 amount or sum allowed, esp. regularly for a stated purpose. 2 amount allowed in reckoning. 3 deduction or discount. make allowances (often foll. by for) 1 consider (mitigating circumstances). 2 make excuses for (a person, bad behaviour, etc.).
alloy -n. 1 mixture of two or more metals. 2 inferior metal mixed esp. with gold or silver. -v. 1 mix (metals). 2 debase by admixture. 3 moderate (pleasure alloyed with pain). [French: related to *ally]
all-purpose attrib. adj. having many uses.
all-right attrib. adj. colloq. acceptable (an all-right guy).
all-round attrib. adj. (of a person) versatile.
all-rounder n. versatile person.
All Saints' Day n. 1 Nov., Christian festival in honour of saints.
All Souls' Day n. 2 Nov., Roman Catholic festival with prayers for the souls of the dead.
allspice n. 1 aromatic spice obtained from the berry of the pimento plant. 2 the berry.
all-time attrib. adj. (of a record etc.) unsurpassed.
allude v. (-ding) (foll. by to) refer to, esp. indirectly or briefly. [Latin: related to *ad-, ludo play]
allure -v. (-ring) attract, charm, or entice. -n. attractiveness, personal charm, fascination. allurement n. [French: related to *ad-, *lure]
allusion n. (often foll. by to) passing or indirect reference. allusive adj. [Latin: related to *allude]
alluvial -adj. of alluvium. -n. alluvium, esp. containing a precious metal.
alluvium n. (pl. -via) deposit of usu. fine fertile soil left behind by a flood, esp. in a river valley. [Latin luo wash]
ally -n. (pl. -ies) State, person, etc., formally cooperating or united with another, esp. (also Ally) in war. -v. also (-ies, -ied) (often refl. and foll. by with) combine in alliance. [Latin alligo bind]
Alma Mater n. one's university, school, or college. [Latin, = bounteous mother]
almanac n. (also almanack) calendar, usu. with astronomical data. [medieval Latin from Greek]
almighty adj. 1 having complete power. 2 (the Almighty) God. 3 slang very great (almighty crash). [Old English: related to *all, *mighty]
almond n. 1 nutlike kernel of a fruit allied to the peach and plum. 2 tree bearing this. [Greek amugdale]
almoner n. social worker attached to a hospital. [French: related to *alms] Usage The usual term now is medical social worker.
almost adv. all but; very nearly. [Old English: related to *all, *most]
alms n.pl. hist. donation of money or food to the poor. [Greek eleemosune pity]
almshouse n. hist. charitable institution for the poor.
aloe n. 1 plant of the lily family with toothed fleshy leaves. 2 (in pl.) (in full bitter aloes) strong laxative from aloe juice. [Old English from Greek]
aloft predic. adj. & adv. 1 high up, overhead. 2 upwards. [Old Norse á lopti in air]
alone -predic. adj. 1 without the presence or help of others. 2 lonely (felt alone). -adv. only, exclusively. [earlier al one: related to *all, *one]
along -prep. beside or through (part of) the length of. -adv. 1 onward, into a more advanced state (come along; getting along nicely). 2 with oneself or others (bring a book along). 3 beside or through part or the whole length of a thing. along with in addition to; together with. [Old English, originally adj. = facing against]
alongside -adv. at or to the side. -prep. close to the side of.
aloof -adj. distant, unsympathetic. -adv. away, apart (he kept aloof). [originally Naut., from *a2 + *luff]
aloud adv. audibly.
alp n. 1 a high mountain. b (the Alps) high range of mountains in Switzerland and adjoining countries. 2 pasture land on a Swiss mountainside. [originally alps, from Greek alpeis]
alpaca n. 1 shaggy S. American mammal related to the llama. 2 its wool; fabric made from this. [Spanish from Quechua]
alpha n. 1 first letter of the Greek alphabet (A, a). 2 first-class mark for a piece of work etc. alpha and omega beginning and end. [Latin from Greek]
alphabet n. 1 set of letters used in writing a language. 2 symbols or signs for these. alphabetical adj. [Greek *alpha, *beta]
alphanumeric adj. containing both letters and numbers.
alpha particle n. helium nucleus emitted by a radioactive substance.
alpine -adj. of mountainous regions or (Alpine) the Alps. -n. 1 plant growing in mountainous regions. 2 = *rock-plant. [Latin: related to *alp]
already adv. 1 before the time in question (I knew that already). 2 as early or as soon as this (is back already). [from *all, *ready]
alright adv. = all right (see *all). Usage Although widely used, alright is still non-standard and is considered incorrect by many people.
Alsatian n. large dog of a breed of wolfhound (also called *German shepherd). [Latin Alsatia Alsace]
also adv. in addition, besides. [Old English: related to *all, *so1]
also-ran n. 1 loser in a race. 2 undistinguished person.
altar n. 1 table or flat block for sacrifice or offering to a deity. 2 Communion table. [Latin altus high]
altarpiece n. painting etc. above or behind an altar.
alter v. make or become different; change. alteration n. [Latin alter other]
altercate v. (-ting) (often foll. by with) dispute, wrangle. altercation n. [Latin]
alter ego n. (pl. -s) 1 one's hidden or second self. 2 intimate friend. [Latin, = other self]
alternate -v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. by with) occur or cause to occur by turns. 2 (foll. by between) go repeatedly from one to another (alternated between hope and fear). -adj. 1 (with noun in pl.) every other (on alternate days). 2 (of things of two kinds) alternating (alternate joy and misery). alternately adv. alternation n. [Latin alterno do by turns: related to *alter] Usage See note at alternative.
alternate angles n.pl. two angles formed alternately on two sides of a line.
alternating current n. electric current reversing its direction at regular intervals.
alternative -adj. 1 available as another choice (alternative route). 2 unconventional (alternative medicine). -n. 1 any of two or more possibilities. 2 choice (had no alternative but to go). alternatively adv.
Usage The adjective alternative should not be confused with alternate, as in 'there will be a dance on alternate Saturdays'.
alternator n. dynamo that generates an alternating current.
although conj. = *though. [from *all, *though]
altimeter n. instrument indicating altitude reached.
altitude n. height, esp. of an object above sea level or above the horizon. [Latin altus high]
alto n. (pl. -s) 1 = *contralto. 2 a highest adult male singing-voice, above tenor. b singer with this voice. 3 instrument pitched second- or third-highest in its family. [Italian alto (canto) high (singing)]
altogether adv. 1 totally, completely. 2 on the whole. 3 in total. in the altogether colloq. naked. [from *all, *together] Usage Note that altogether means 'in total', whereas all together means 'all at once' or 'all in one place'. The phrases six rooms altogether (in total) and six rooms all together (in one place) illustrate the difference.
altruism n. unselfishness as a principle of action. altruist n. altruistic adj. [Italian altrui somebody else]
alum n. double sulphate of aluminium and potassium. [Latin alumen -min-]
alumina n. aluminium oxide occurring naturally as corundum and emery.
aluminium n. (US aluminum) silvery light and malleable metallic element resistant to tarnishing by air.
aluminize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) coat with aluminium.
aluminum n. (Brit. aluminium) silvery light and malleable metallic element resistant to tarnishing by air.
alumnus n. (pl. alumni; fem. alumna, pl. alumnae) former pupil or student. [Latin, = nursling, pupil]
always adv. 1 at all times; on all occasions. 2 whatever the circumstances. 3 repeatedly, often. [from *all, *way]
alyssum n. plant with small usu. yellow or white flowers. [Greek, = curing madness]
Alzheimer's disease n. brain disorder causing senility. [Alzheimer, name of a neurologist]
AM abbr. amplitude modulation.
Am symb. americium.
am 1st person sing. present of *be.
a.m. abbr. before noon. [Latin ante meridiem]
amalgam n. 1 mixture or blend. 2 alloy of mercury and another metal, used esp. in dentistry. [Greek malagma an emollient]
amalgamate v. (-ting) 1 mix, unite. 2 (of metals) alloy with mercury. amalgamation n. [medieval Latin: related to *amalgam]
amanuensis n. (pl. -enses) literary assistant, esp. writing from dictation. [Latin a manu 'at hand']
amaranth n. 1 plant with small green, red, or purple tinted flowers. 2 imaginary unfading flower. 3 purple colour. amaranthine adj. [Greek amarantos unfading]
amaryllis n. bulbous plant with lily-like flowers. [Greek, a girl's name]
amass v. heap together; accumulate. [French: related to *ad-, *mass1]
amateur n. person who engages in a pursuit as a pastime rather than a profession, or performs with limited skill. amateurish adj. amateurism n. [Latin amator lover: related to *amatory]
amatory adj. of sexual love. [Latin amo love]
amaze v. (-zing) surprise greatly, fill with wonder. amazement n. amazing adj. [earlier amase from Old English amasod]
Amazon n. 1 female warrior of a mythical race in the Black Sea area. 2 (amazon) large, strong, or athletic woman. Amazonian adj. [Latin from Greek]
ambassador n. 1 diplomat sent to live abroad to represent his or her country's interests. 2 promoter (ambassador of peace). ambassadorial adj. [Latin ambactus servant]
amber -n. 1 a yellow translucent fossilized resin used in jewellery. b colour of this. 2 yellow traffic-light meaning caution. -adj. of or like amber. [French from Arabic]
ambergris n. waxlike secretion of the sperm whale, found floating in tropical seas and used in perfumes. [French, = grey amber]
ambidextrous adj. able to use either hand equally well. [Latin ambi- on both sides, *dexter]
ambience n. surroundings or atmosphere. [Latin ambio go round]
ambient adj. surrounding.
ambiguous adj. 1 having an obscure or double meaning. 2 difficult to classify. ambiguity n. (pl. -ies). [Latin ambi- both ways, ago drive]
ambit n. scope, extent, or bounds. [Latin: related to *ambience]
ambition n. 1 determination to succeed. 2 object of this. [Latin, = canvassing: related to *ambience]
ambitious adj. 1 full of ambition or high aims. 2 (foll. by of, or to + infin.) strongly determined.
ambivalence n. coexistence of opposing feelings. ambivalent adj. [Latin ambo both, *equivalent]
amble -v. (-ling) move at an easy pace. -n. such a pace. [Latin ambulo walk]
ambrosia n. 1 (in classical mythology) the food of the gods. 2 sublimely delicious food etc. [Greek, = elixir of life]
ambulance n. 1 vehicle equipped for conveying patients to hospital. 2 mobile hospital serving an army. [Latin: related to *amble]
ambulatory -adj. 1 of or for walking. 2 movable. -n. (pl. -ies) arcade or cloister. [Latin: related to *amble]
ambuscade n. & v. (-ding) = *ambush.
ambush -n. 1 surprise attack by persons hiding. 2 hiding-place for this. -v. attack from an ambush; waylay. [French: related to *in-1, *bush1]
ameliorate v. (-ting) make or become better. amelioration n. ameliorative adj. [from *ad-, Latin melior better]
amen int. (esp. at the end of a prayer etc.) so be it. [Church Latin from Hebrew, = certainly]
amenable adj. 1 responsive, docile. 2 (often foll. by to) answerable to law etc. [French: related to *ad-, Latin mino drive animals]
amend v. 1 make minor alterations in to improve. 2 correct an error in (a document etc.). [Latin: related to *emend]
Usage Amend is often confused with emend, a more technical word used in the context of textual correction.
amendment n. minor alteration or addition in a document, resolution, etc.
amends n. make amends (often foll. by for) compensate (for).
amenity n. (pl. -ies) 1 pleasant or useful feature or facility. 2 pleasantness (of a place etc.). [Latin amoenus pleasant]
American -adj. of America, esp. the United States. -n. 1 native, citizen, or inhabitant of America, esp. the US. 2 English as used in the US. Americanize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). [name of navigator Amerigo Vespucci]
American dream n. ideal of democracy and prosperity.
American football n. football evolved from Rugby.
American Indian see *Indian.
Americanism n. word etc. of US origin or usage.
americium n. artificial radioactive metallic element. [America, where first made]
Amerind adj. & n. (also Amerindian) = *American Indian (see *Indian).
amethyst n. semiprecious stone of a violet or purple variety of quartz. [Greek, = preventing drunkenness]
Amharic -n. official and commercial language of Ethiopia. -adj. of this language. [Amhara, region of Ethiopia]
amiable adj. (esp. of a person) friendly and pleasant, likeable. amiably adv. [Latin: related to *amicable]
amicable adj. (esp. of an arrangement, relations, etc.) friendly. amicably adv. [Latin amicus friend]
amid prep. in the middle of, among. [Old English: related to *on, *mid]
amidships adv. in or into the middle of a ship. [from *amid, alternative form midships]
amidst var. of *amid.
amine n. compound formed from ammonia by replacement of one or more hydrogen atoms by an organic radical or radicals.
amino acid n. Biochem. any of a group of nitrogenous organic acids occurring naturally in plant and animal tissues and forming the basic constituents of proteins. [from *amine, *acid]
amir var. of *emir.
amiss -predic. adj. wrong, out of order. -adv. wrong(ly), inappropriately (everything went amiss). take amiss be offended by. [Old Norse à mis so as to miss]
amity n. friendship. [Latin amicus friend]
ammeter n. instrument for measuring electric current in amperes. [from *ampere, *-meter]
ammo n. slang ammunition. [abbreviation]
ammonia n. 1 pungent strongly alkaline gas. 2 (in general use) solution of ammonia in water. [as *sal ammoniac]
ammonite n. coil-shaped fossil shell. [Latin, = horn of Jupiter Ammon]
ammunition n. 1 supply of bullets, shells, grenades, etc. 2 information usable in an argument. [French la *munition taken as l'ammu-]
amnesia n. loss of memory. amnesiac n. [Latin from Greek]
amnesty -n. (pl. -ies) general pardon, esp. for political offences. -v. (-ies, -ied) grant an amnesty to. [Greek amnestia oblivion]
amniocentesis n. (pl. -teses) sampling of amniotic fluid to detect foetal abnormality. [from *amnion, Greek kentesis pricking]
amnion n. (pl. amnia) innermost membrane enclosing an embryo. amniotic adj. [Greek, = caul]
amoeba n. (pl. -s) microscopic aquatic amorphous one-celled organism. amoebic adj. [Greek, = change]
amok adv. run amok (or amuck) run wild. [Malay]
among prep. (also amongst) 1 surrounded by, with (lived among the trees; be among friends). 2 included in (among us were dissidents). 3 in the category of (among his best works). 4 a between; shared by (divide it among you). b from the joint resources of (among us we can manage it). 5 with one another (talked among themselves). [Old English, = in a crowd]
amoral adj. 1 beyond morality. 2 without moral principles.
amorous adj. of, showing, or feeling sexual love. [Latin amor love]
amorphous adj. 1 of no definite shape. 2 vague. 3 Mineral. & Chem. non-crystalline. [Greek a- not, morphe form]
amortize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) gradually extinguish (a debt) by regular instalments. [Latin ad mortem to death]
amount -n. quantity, esp. a total in number, size, value, extent, etc. -v. (foll. by to) be equivalent to in number, significance, etc. [Latin ad montem upward]
amour n. (esp. secret) love affair. [French, = love]
amour propre n. self-respect. [French]
amp1 n. ampere. [abbreviation]
amp2 n. colloq. amplifier. [abbreviation]
ampelopsis n. (pl. same) climbing plant related to the vine. [Greek ampelos vine, opsis appearance]
amperage n. strength of an electric current in amperes.
ampere n. SI base unit of electric current. [Ampère, name of a physicist]
ampersand n. the sign '&' (= and). [corruption of and *per se and]
amphetamine n. synthetic drug used esp. as a stimulant. [abbreviation of chemical name]
amphibian -adj. of a class of vertebrates (e.g. frogs) with an aquatic larval stage followed by a terrestrial adult stage. -n. 1 vertebrate of this class. 2 vehicle able to operate both on land and in water. [Greek amphi- both, bios life]
amphibious adj. 1 living or operating on land and in water. 2 involving military forces landed from the sea.
amphitheatre n. esp. circular unroofed building with tiers of seats surrounding a central space. [Greek amphi- round]
amphora n. (pl. -phorae) narrow-necked Greek or Roman vessel with two handles. [Greek amphoreus]
ample adj. (ampler, amplest) 1 a plentiful, abundant, extensive. b euphem. large, stout. 2 more than enough. amply adv. [Latin amplus]
amplifier n. electronic device for increasing the strength of electrical signals, esp. for conversion into sound.
amplify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 increase the strength of (sound, electrical signals, etc.). 2 add detail to, expand (a story etc.). amplification n. [Latin: related to *ample]
amplitude n. 1 maximum departure from average of an oscillation, alternating current, etc. 2 spaciousness; abundance. [Latin: related to *ample]
amplitude modulation n. modulation of a wave by variation of its amplitude.
ampoule n. small sealed capsule holding a solution for injection. [French: related to *ampulla]
ampulla n. (pl. -pullae) 1 Roman globular flask with two handles. 2 ecclesiastical vessel. [Latin]
amputate v. (-ting) cut off surgically (a limb etc.). amputation n. amputee n. [Latin amb- about, puto prune]
amuck var. of *amok.
amulet n. charm worn against evil. [Latin]
amuse v. (-sing) 1 cause to laugh or smile. 2 interest or occupy. amusing adj. [French a cause to, muser stare]
amusement n. 1 thing that amuses. 2 being amused. 3 mechanical device (e.g. a roundabout) for entertainment at a fairground etc.
amusement arcade n. indoor area with slot-machines.
an see *a1.
an- see *a-.
-an suffix (also -ian) forming adjectives and nouns, esp. from names of places, systems, classes, etc. (Mexican; Anglican; crustacean). [French -ain, Latin -anus]
Anabaptist n. member of a religious group believing in baptism only of adults. [Greek ana again]
anabolic steroid n. synthetic steroid hormone used to increase muscle size.
anabolism n. synthesis of complex molecules in living organisms from simpler ones together with the storage of energy. [Greek anabole ascent]
anachronism n. 1 a attribution of a custom, event, etc., to the wrong period. b thing thus attributed. 2 out-of-date person or thing. anachronistic adj. [Greek ana- against, khronos time]
anaconda n. large non-poisonous snake killing its prey by constriction. [Sinhalese]
anaemia n. (US anemia) deficiency of red blood cells or their haemoglobin, causing pallor and weariness. [Greek, = want of blood]
anaemic adj. (US anemic) 1 of or suffering from anaemia. 2 pale, listless.
anaesthesia n. (US anes-) absence of sensation, esp. artificially induced before surgery. [Greek]
anaesthetic (US anes-) -n. substance producing anaesthesia. -adj. producing anaesthesia.
anaesthetist n. (US anes-) specialist in the administration of anaesthetics.
anaesthetize v. (US anes-) (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) administer an anaesthetic to.
anagram n. word or phrase formed by transposing the letters of another. [Greek ana again, gramma letter]
anal adj. of the anus.
analgesia n. absence or relief of pain. [Greek]
analgesic -adj. relieving pain. -n. analgesic drug.
analog n. (Brit. analogue) 1 analogous thing. 2 (attrib.) (usu. analog) (of a computer etc.) using physical variables, e.g. voltage, to represent numbers (cf. *digital).
analogize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) use, or represent or explain by, analogy.
analogous adj. (usu. foll. by to) partially similar or parallel. [Greek analogos proportionate]
analogue n. (US analog) 1 analogous thing. 2 (attrib.) (usu. analog) (of a computer etc.) using physical variables, e.g. voltage, to represent numbers (cf. *digital).
analogy n. (pl. -ies) 1 correspondence; partial similarity. 2 arguing or reasoning from parallel cases. analogical adj. [Greek analogia proportion]
analyse v. (US analyze) (-sing or -zing) 1 examine in detail; ascertain the constituents of (a substance, sentence, etc.). 2 psychoanalyse.
analysis n. (pl. -lyses) 1 a detailed examination of elements or structure. b statement of the result of this. 2 Chem. determination of the constituent parts of a mixture or compound. 3 psychoanalysis. [Greek ana up, luo loose]
analyst n. 1 person skilled in (esp. chemical or computer) analysis. 2 psychoanalyst.
analytical adj. (also analytic) of or using analysis.
analyze n. (Brit. analyse) 1 examine in detail; ascertain the constituents of (a substance, sentence, etc.). 2 psychoanalyse.
anapaest n. metrical foot consisting of two short syllables followed by one long syllable (&anapaest.). [Greek anapaistos reversed (dactyl)]
anarchism n. political theory that all government and laws should be abolished. [French: related to *anarchy]
anarchist n. advocate of anarchism. anarchistic adj.
anarchy n. disorder, esp. political. anarchic adj. [Greek an- without, arkhe rule]
anathema n. (pl. -s) 1 detested thing (is anathema to me). 2 ecclesiastical curse. [Greek, = thing devoted (i.e. to evil)]
anathematize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) curse.
anatomy n. (pl. -ies) 1 science of animal or plant structure. 2 such a structure. 3 analysis. anatomical adj. anatomist n. [Greek ana- up, temno cut]
anatto var. of *annatto.
ANC abbr. African National Congress.
-ance suffix forming nouns expressing: 1 quality or state or an instance of one (arrogance; resemblance). 2 action (assistance). [French -ance, Latin -antia]
ancestor n. 1 person, animal, or plant from which another has descended or evolved. 2 prototype or forerunner. [Latin ante- before, cedo go]
ancestral adj. belonging to or inherited from one's ancestors.
ancestry n. (pl. -ies) 1 family descent, lineage. 2 ancestors collectively.
anchor -n. 1 heavy metal weight used to moor a ship or a balloon. 2 stabilizing thing. -v. 1 secure with an anchor. 2 fix firmly. 3 cast anchor. 4 be moored by an anchor. [Greek agkura]
anchorage n. 1 place for anchoring. 2 anchoring or lying at anchor.
anchorite n. hermit; religious recluse. [Greek anakhoreo retire]
anchorman n. coordinator, esp. as compère in a broadcast.
anchovy n. (pl. -ies) small strong-flavoured fish of the herring family. [Spanish and Portuguese anchova]
ancien régime n. (pl. anciens régimes pronunc. same) 1 political and social system of pre-Revolutionary (before 1787) France. 2 any superseded regime. [French, = old rule]
ancient adj. 1 of long ago, esp. before the fall of the Roman Empire in the West. 2 having lived or existed long. the ancients people of ancient times, esp. the Greeks and Romans. [Latin ante before]
ancillary -adj. 1 (esp. of health workers) providing essential support. 2 (often foll. by to) subordinate, subservient. -n. (pl. -ies) 1 ancillary worker. 2 auxiliary or accessory. [Latin ancilla handmaid]
-ancy suffix forming nouns denoting a quality (constancy) or state (infancy). [Latin -antia]
and conj. 1 a connecting words, clauses, or sentences, to be taken jointly (you and I). b implying progression (better and better). c implying causation (she hit him and he cried). d implying great duration (cried and cried). e implying a great number (miles and miles). f implying addition (two and two). g implying variety (there are books and books). 2 colloq. to (try and come). 3 in relation to (Britain and the EC). and/or either or both of two stated alternatives. [Old English]
andante Mus. -adv. & adj. in a moderately slow tempo. -n. such a passage or movement. [Italian, = going]
andiron n. metal stand (usu. one of a pair) for supporting logs in a fireplace. [French andier]
androgynous adj. 1 hermaphrodite. 2 Bot. with stamens and pistils in the same flower. [Greek aner andr- man, gune woman]
android n. robot with a human appearance. [Greek aner andr- man, *-oid]
anecdote n. short, esp. true, account or story. anecdotal adj. [Greek anekdota things unpublished]
anemia n. (Brit. anaemia) deficiency of red blood cells or their haemoglobin, causing pallor and weariness. [Greek, = want of blood]
anemic adj. (Brit. anaemic) 1 of or suffering from anemia. 2 pale, listless.
anemometer n. instrument for measuring wind force. [Greek anemos wind]
anemone n. plant of the buttercup family, with vividly-coloured flowers. [Greek, = wind-flower]
aneroid -adj. (of a barometer) measuring air-pressure by its action on the lid of a box containing a vacuum. -n. aneroid barometer. [Greek a- not, neros water]
anesthesia n. (Brit. anaes-) absence of sensation, esp. artificially induced before surgery. [Greek]
anesthetic (Brit. anaes-)-n. substance producing anesthesia. -adj.producing anesthesia
aneurysm n. (also aneurism) excessive localized enlargement of an artery. [Greek aneuruno widen]
anew adv. 1 again. 2 in a different way. [earlier of newe]
angel n. 1 a attendant or messenger of God. b representation of this in human form with wings. 2 virtuous or obliging person. 3 slang financial backer of a play etc. [Greek aggelos messenger]
angel cake n. light sponge cake.
angel-fish n. fish with winglike fins.
angelic adj. of or like an angel. angelically adv.
angelica n. aromatic plant or its candied stalks. [medieval Latin, = angelic (herb)]
angelus n. 1 Roman Catholic prayers commemorating the Incarnation, said at morning, noon, and sunset. 2 bell announcing this. [Latin Angelus domini (= the angel of the Lord), opening words]
anger -n. extreme or passionate displeasure. -v. make angry. [Old Norse angr grief]
angina n. (in full angina pectoris) chest pain brought on by exertion, caused by an inadequate blood supply to the heart. [Greek agkhone strangling]
angiosperm n. plant producing flowers and reproducing by seeds enclosed within a carpel, including herbaceous plants, grasses, and most trees. [Greek aggeion vessel]
Angle n. (usu. in pl.) member of a N. German tribe that settled in E. Britain in the 5th c. [Latin Anglus, from the name Angul in Germany]
angle1 -n. 1 space between two meeting lines or surfaces, esp. as measured in degrees. 2 corner. 3 point of view. -v. (-ling) 1 move or place obliquely. 2 present (information) in a biased way. [Latin angulus]
angle2 v. (-ling) 1 fish with hook and line. 2 (foll. by for) seek an objective indirectly (angled for a loan). angler n. [Old English]
Anglican -adj. of the Church of England. -n. member of the Anglican Church. Anglicanism n. [Latin Anglicanus: related to *Angle]
Anglicism n. peculiarly English word or custom. [Latin Anglicus: related to *Angle]
Anglicize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make English in character etc.
Anglo- comb. form 1 English. 2 of English origin. 3 English or British and. [Latin: related to *Angle]
Anglo-Catholic -adj. of a High Church Anglican wing emphasizing its Catholic tradition. -n. member of this group.
Anglo-French -adj. English (or British) and French. -n. French language as developed in England after the Norman Conquest.
Anglo-Indian -adj. 1 of England and India. 2 of British descent but Indian residence. -n. Anglo-Indian person.
Anglo-Norman -adj. English and Norman. -n. Norman dialect used in England after the Norman Conquest.
Anglophile n. person who greatly admires England or the English.
Anglo-Saxon -adj. 1 of the English Saxons before the Norman Conquest. 2 of English descent. -n. 1 Anglo-Saxon person. 2 Old English. 3 colloq. plain (esp. crude) English.
angora n. 1 fabric or wool from the hair of the angora goat or rabbit. 2 long-haired variety of cat, goat, or rabbit. [Angora (= Ankara) in Turkey]
angostura n. aromatic bitter bark used as a flavouring. [Angostura (= Ciudad Bolívar) in Venezuela]
angry adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 feeling, showing, or suggesting anger (angry sky). 2 (of a wound etc.) inflamed, painful. angrily adv.
angst n. anxiety, neurotic fear; guilt, remorse. [German]
angstrom n. unit of length equal to 10-10 metre. [Ångström, name of a physicist]
anguish n. 1 severe mental suffering. 2 pain, agony. anguished adj. [Latin angustia tightness]
angular adj. 1 having sharp corners or (of a person) features. 2 forming an angle. 3 measured by angle (angular distance). angularity n. [Latin: related to *angle1]
anhydrous adj. Chem. without water, esp. water of crystallization. [Greek an- without, hudor water]
aniline n. colourless oily liquid used in making dyes, drugs, and plastics. [German Anil indigo, former source]
animadvert v. (foll. by on) literary criticize, censure. animadversion n. [Latin animus mind, *adverse]
animal -n. 1 living organism, esp. other than man, which feeds and usu. has sense-organs and a nervous system and can move quickly. 2 brutish person. -adj. 1 of or like an animal. 2 bestial; carnal. [Latin animalis having breath]
animalism n. 1 nature and activity of animals. 2 belief that humans are mere animals.
animality n. 1 the animal world. 2 animal behaviour.
animalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make (a person) bestial, sensualize.
animate -adj. 1 having life. 2 lively. -v. (-ting) 1 enliven. 2 give life to. [Latin anima breath]
animated adj. 1 lively, vigorous. 2 having life. 3 (of a film etc.) using animation.
animation n. 1 vivacity, ardour. 2 being alive. 3 technique of producing a moving picture from a sequence of drawings or puppet poses etc.
animism n. belief that inanimate and natural phenomena have souls. animist n. animistic adj.
animosity n. (pl. -ies) spirit or feeling of hostility. [Latin: related to *animus]
animus n. animosity, ill feeling. [Latin, = spirit, mind]
anion n. negatively charged ion. anionic adj. [Greek ana up, *ion]
anise n. plant with aromatic seeds. [Greek anison]
aniseed n. seed of the anise, used for flavouring.
ankle n. 1 joint connecting the foot with the leg. 2 this part of the leg. [Old Norse]
anklet n. ornament or fetter worn round the ankle.
ankylosis n. stiffening of a joint by fusion of the bones. [Greek agkulos crooked]
annals n.pl. 1 narrative of events year by year. 2 historical records. annalist n. [Latin annus year]
annatto n. (also anatto) orange-red dye from the pulp of a tropical fruit, used for colouring foods. [Carib name of the fruit-tree]
anneal v. heat (metal or glass) and cool slowly, esp. to toughen it. [Old English ælan bake]
annelid n. segmented worm, e.g. the earthworm. [Latin anulus ring]
annex v. 1 (often foll. by to) add as a subordinate part. 2 incorporate (territory) into one's own. 3 add as a condition or consequence. 4 colloq. take without right. annexation n. [Latin necto bind]
annexe n. 1 separate or added building. 2 addition to a document.
annihilate v. (-ting) completely destroy or defeat. annihilation n. [Latin nihil nothing]
anniversary n. (pl. -ies) 1 date of an event in a previous year. 2 celebration of this. [Latin annus year, verto vers- turn]
Anno Domini adv. years after Christ's birth. [Latin, = in the year of the Lord]
annotate v. (-ting) add explanatory notes to. annotation n. [Latin nota mark]
announce v. (-cing) 1 make publicly known. 2 make known the arrival or imminence of (a guest, dinner, etc.). 3 be a sign of. announcement n. [Latin nuntius messenger]
announcer n. person who announces, esp. in broadcasting.
annoy v. 1 (often in passive) anger or distress slightly (am annoyed with you). 2 molest, harass. annoyance n. [Latin in odio hateful]
annual -adj. 1 reckoned by the year. 2 occurring yearly. 3 living or lasting (only) a year. -n. 1 book etc. published yearly. 2 plant that lives only a year. annually adv. [Latin annus year]
annualized adj. (of rates of interest etc.) calculated on an annual basis, as a projection from figures obtained for a shorter period.
annuity n. (pl. -ies) 1 yearly grant or allowance. 2 investment yielding a fixed annual sum.
annul v. (-ll-) 1 declare invalid. 2 cancel, abolish. annulment n. [Latin nullus none]
annular adj. ring-shaped. [Latin anulus ring]
annular eclipse n. solar eclipse in which a ring of light remains visible.
annulate adj. marked with or formed of rings.
annunciation n. 1 announcement, esp. (Annunciation) that made by the angel Gabriel to Mary. 2 festival of this. [Latin: related to *announce]
anode n. positive electrode in an electrolytic cell etc. [Greek anodos way up]
anodize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) coat (metal) with a protective layer by electrolysis.
anodyne -adj. 1 pain-relieving. 2 mentally soothing. -n. anodyne drug etc. [Greek an- without, odune pain]
anoint v. 1 apply oil or ointment to, esp. ritually. 2 (usu. foll. by with) smear. [Latin inungo anoint]
anomalous adj. irregular, deviant, abnormal. [Greek an- not, homalos even]
anomaly n. (pl. -ies) anomalous thing; irregularity.
anon adv. archaic soon, shortly. [Old English on an into one]
anon. abbr. anonymous.
anonymous adj. 1 of unknown name or authorship. 2 without character; featureless. anonymity n. [Greek an- without, onoma name]
anorak n. waterproof usu. hooded jacket. [Eskimo]
anorexia n. lack of appetite, esp. (in full anorexia nervosa) an obsessive desire to lose weight by refusing to eat. anorexic adj. & n. [Greek an- without, orexis appetite]
another -adj. 1 an additional; one more (another cake). 2 person like (another Hitler). 3 a different (another matter). 4 some other (another man's work). -pron. additional, other, or different person or thing. [earlier an other]
answer -n. 1 something said or done in reaction to a question, statement, or circumstance. 2 solution to a problem. -v. 1 make an answer or response (to) (answer the door). 2 suit (a purpose or need). 3 (foll. by to, for) be responsible (you will answer to me for your conduct). 4 (foll. by to) correspond, esp. to a description. answer back answer insolently. [Old English, = swear against (a charge)]
answerable adj. 1 (usu. foll. by to, for) responsible (answerable to them for any accident). 2 that can be answered.
answering machine n. tape recorder which answers telephone calls and takes messages.
answerphone n. = *answering machine.
ant n. small usu. wingless insect living in complex social colonies and proverbial for industry. [Old English]
-ant suffix 1 forming adjectives denoting attribution of an action (repentant) or state (arrogant). 2 forming agent nouns (assistant). [Latin -ant-, present participial stem of verbs]
antacid -adj. preventing or correcting acidity. -n. antacid agent.
antagonism n. active hostility. [French: related to *agony]
antagonist n. opponent or adversary. antagonistic adj.
antagonize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make hostile; provoke.
Antarctic -adj. of the south polar regions. -n. this region. [Latin: related to *Arctic]
Antarctic Circle n. parallel of latitude 66° 32´ S., forming an imaginary line round the Antarctic region.
ante -n. 1 stake put up by a player in poker etc. before receiving cards. 2 amount payable in advance. -v. (-tes, -ted) 1 put up as an ante. 2 US a bet, stake. b (foll. by up) pay.
ante- prefix before, preceding. [Latin, = before]
anteater n. any of various mammals feeding on ants and termites.
antecedent -n. 1 preceding thing or circumstance. 2 Gram. word or phrase etc. to which another word (esp. a relative pronoun) refers. 3 (in pl.) person's past history or ancestors. -adj. previous. [Latin cedo go]
antechamber n. ante-room.
antedate v. (-ting) 1 precede in time. 2 assign an earlier than actual date to.
antediluvian adj. 1 of the time before the Flood. 2 colloq. very old or out of date. [from *ante-, Latin diluvium deluge]
antelope n. (pl. same or -s) swift-moving deerlike ruminant, e.g. the gazelle and gnu. [Greek antholops]
antenatal adj. 1 before birth. 2 of pregnancy.
antenna n. 1 (pl. -tennae) each of a pair of feelers on the heads of insects, crustaceans, etc. 2 (pl. -s) = *aerial n. [Latin, = sail-yard]
antepenultimate adj. last but two.
ante-post adj. (of betting) done at odds determined at the time of betting, in advance of the event concerned. [from *ante-, *post1]
anterior adj. 1 nearer the front. 2 (often foll. by to) prior. [Latin from ante before]
ante-room n. small room leading to a main one.
anthem n. 1 elaborate choral composition usu. based on a passage of scripture. 2 solemn hymn of praise etc., esp. = *national anthem. [Latin: related to *antiphon]
anther n. part of a stamen containing pollen. [Greek anthos flower]
anthill n. moundlike nest built by ants or termites.
anthology n. (pl. -ies) collection of poems, essays, stories, etc. anthologist n. [Greek anthos flower, -logia collection]
anthracite n. hard type of coal burning with little flame and smoke. [Greek: related to *anthrax]
anthrax n. disease of sheep and cattle transmissible to humans. [Greek, = coal, carbuncle]
anthropocentric adj. regarding mankind as the centre of existence. [Greek anthropos man]
anthropoid -adj. human in form. -n. anthropoid ape.
anthropology n. the study of mankind, esp. its societies and customs. anthropological adj. anthropologist n.
anthropomorphism n. attribution of human characteristics to a god, animal, or thing. anthropomorphic adj. [Greek morphe form]
anthropomorphous adj. human in form.
anti -prep. opposed to. -n. (pl. -s) person opposed to a policy etc.
anti- prefix 1 opposed to (anticlerical). 2 preventing (antifreeze). 3 opposite of (anticlimax). 4 unconventional (anti-hero). [Greek]
anti-abortion adj. opposing abortion. anti-abortionist n.
anti-aircraft adj. (of a gun or missile) used to attack enemy aircraft.
antibiotic -n. substance (e.g. penicillin) that can inhibit or destroy susceptible micro-organisms. -adj. functioning as an antibiotic. [Greek bios life]
antibody n. (pl. -ies) a blood protein produced in response to and then counteracting antigens. [translation of German Antikörper]
antic n. (usu. in pl.) foolish behaviour or action. [Italian antico *antique]
Antichrist n. enemy of Christ. antichristian adj.
anticipate v. (-ting) 1 deal with or use before the proper time. 2 expect, foresee (did not anticipate a problem). 3 forestall (a person or thing). 4 look forward to. anticipation n. anticipatory adj. [Latin anti- before, capio take]
Usage The use of anticipate in sense 2, 'expect', 'foresee', is well-established in informal use, but is regarded as incorrect by some people.
anticlerical adj. opposed to clerical influence, esp. in politics.
anticlimax n. disappointingly trivial conclusion to something significant.
anticlockwise adj. & adv. moving in a curve opposite in direction to the hands of a clock.
anticyclone n. system of winds rotating outwards from an area of high pressure, producing fine weather.
antidepressant -n. drug etc. that alleviates depression. -adj. alleviating depression.
antidote n. 1 medicine etc. used to counteract poison. 2 anything counteracting something unpleasant. [Greek antidotos given against]
antifreeze n. substance added to water to lower its freezing point, esp. in a vehicle's radiator.
antigen n. foreign substance (e.g. toxin) which causes the body to produce antibodies. [Greek -genes of a kind]
anti-hero n. (pl. -es) central character in a story, lacking conventional heroic qualities.
antihistamine n. drug that counteracts the effects of histamine, used esp. in treating allergies.
antiknock n. substance added to motor fuel to prevent premature combustion.
anti-lock attrib. adj. (of brakes) set up so as to prevent locking and skidding when applied suddenly.
antilog n. colloq. = *antilogarithm. [abbreviation]
antilogarithm n. number to which a logarithm belongs.
antimacassar n. detachable protective cloth for the back of a chair etc.
antimatter n. matter composed solely of antiparticles.
antimony n. brittle silvery metallic element used esp. in alloys. [medieval Latin]
antinomian -adj. believing that Christians need not obey the moral law. -n. (Antinomian) hist. person believing this. [Greek nomos law]
antinomy n. (pl. -ies) contradiction between two reasonable beliefs or conclusions.
antinovel n. novel avoiding the conventions of the form.
anti-nuclear adj. opposed to the development of nuclear weapons or power.
antiparticle n. elementary particle with the same mass but opposite charge etc. to another particle.
antipathy n. (pl. -ies) (often foll. by to, for, between) strong aversion or dislike. antipathetic adj. [Greek: related to *pathetic]
antiperspirant n. substance preventing or reducing perspiration.
antiphon n. 1 hymn sung alternately by two groups. 2 versicle or phrase from this. antiphonal adj. [Greek phone sound]
antipodes n.pl. places diametrically opposite to one another on the earth, esp. (also Antipodes) Australasia in relation to Europe. antipodean adj. & n. [Greek, = having the feet opposite]
antipope n. pope set up in opposition to one chosen by canon law.
antipyretic -adj. preventing or reducing fever. -n. antipyretic drug.
antiquarian -adj. of or dealing in antiques or rare books. -n. antiquary. antiquarianism n.
antiquary n. (pl. -ies) student or collector of antiques etc. [Latin: related to *antique]
antiquated adj. old-fashioned.
antique -n. old object, esp. a piece of furniture, of high value. -adj. 1 of or from an early date. 2 old-fashioned. [Latin antiquus]
antiquity n. (pl. -ies) 1 ancient times, esp. before the Middle Ages. 2 great age. 3 (usu. in pl.) relics from ancient times. [Latin: related to *antique]
antirrhinum n. plant with two-lipped flowers, esp. the snapdragon. [Greek, = snout]
anti-Semite n. person who is prejudiced against Jews. anti-Semitic adj. anti-Semitism n.
antiseptic -adj. 1 counteracting sepsis, esp. by destroying germs. 2 sterile, uncontaminated. 3 lacking character. -n. antiseptic agent.
antiserum n. serum with a high antibody content.
antisocial adj. 1 opposed or harmful to society. 2 not sociable.
Usage Antisocial is sometimes used mistakenly instead of unsocial in the phrase unsocial hours. This should be avoided.
antistatic adj. counteracting the effects of static electricity.
anti-tank attrib. adj. used against tanks.
antitetanus adj. effective against tetanus.
antithesis n. (pl. -theses) 1 (foll. by of, to) direct opposite. 2 contrast. 3 rhetorical use of strongly contrasted words. antithetical adj. [Greek antitithemi set against]
antitoxin n. antibody counteracting a toxin. antitoxic adj.
antitrades n.pl. winds blowing in the opposite direction to (and usu. above) trade winds.
antiviral adj. effective against viruses.
antler n. branched horn of a stag or other deer. antlered adj. [French]
antonym n. word opposite in meaning to another. [Greek onoma name]
antrum n. (pl. antra) natural cavity in the body, esp. in a bone. [Greek, = cave]
anus n. (pl. anuses) excretory opening at the end of the alimentary canal. [Latin]
anvil n. iron block on which metals are worked. [Old English]
anxiety n. (pl. -ies) 1 being anxious. 2 worry or concern. 3 eagerness, troubled desire. [Latin anxietas from ango choke]
anxious adj. 1 mentally troubled. 2 causing or marked by anxiety (anxious moment). 3 eager, uneasily wanting (anxious to please). anxiously adv. [Latin anxius]
any -adj. 1 a one, no matter which, of several (cannot find any answer). b some, no matter how much or many or of what sort (if any books arrive; have you any sugar?). 2 a minimal amount of (hardly any difference). 3 whichever is chosen (any fool knows). 4 an appreciable or significant (did not stay for any length of time; has any amount of money). -pron. 1 any one (did not know any of them). 2 any number or amount (are any of them yours?). -adv. (usu. with neg. or interrog.) at all (is that any good?). [Old English ænig: related to *one, *-y1]
anybody n. & pron. 1 any person. 2 person of importance (is he anybody?).
anyhow adv. 1 anyway. 2 in a disorderly manner or state (does his work anyhow).
anyone pron. anybody.
Usage Anyone is written as two words to emphasize a numerical sense, as in any one of us can do it.
anything pron. any thing; thing of any sort. anything but not at all.
anyway adv. 1 in any way or manner. 2 at any rate. 3 to resume (anyway, as I was saying).
anywhere -adv. in or to any place. -pron. any place (anywhere will do).
AOB abbr. any other business.
aorta n. (pl. -s) main artery, giving rise to the arterial network carrying oxygenated blood to the body from the heart. aortic adj. [Greek aeiro raise]
apace adv. literary swiftly. [French à pas]
Apache n. member of a N. American Indian tribe. [Mexican Spanish]
apart adv. 1 separately, not together (keep your feet apart). 2 into pieces (came apart). 3 to or on one side. 4 to or at a distance. apart from 1 excepting, not considering. 2 in addition to (apart from roses we grow irises). [French à part to one side]
apartheid n. (esp. in S. Africa) racial segregation or discrimination. [Afrikaans]
apartment n. 1 (in pl.) suite of rooms. 2 single room. 3 US flat. [Italian a parte, apart]
apathy n. lack of interest; indifference. apathetic adj. [Greek a- without, *pathos]
ape -n. 1 tailless monkey-like primate, e.g. the gorilla, chimpanzee, orang-utan, or gibbon. 2 imitator. -v. (-ping) imitate, mimic. [Old English]
apeman n. extinct primate held to be the forerunner of present-day man.
aperient -adj. laxative. -n. laxative medicine. [Latin aperio open]
aperitif n. alcoholic drink taken before a meal. [Latin aperio open]
aperture n. opening or gap, esp. a variable opening in a camera for admitting light. [Latin aperio open]
Apex n. (also APEX) (often attrib.) system of reduced fares for scheduled flights. [Advance Purchase Excursion]
apex n. (pl. -es) 1 highest point. 2 tip or pointed end. [Latin]
aphasia n. loss of verbal understanding or expression, owing to brain damage. [Greek aphatos speechless]
aphelion n. (pl. -lia) point in a celestial body's orbit where it is furthest from the sun. [Greek aph'heliou from the sun]
aphid n. small insect infesting and damaging plants, e.g. the greenfly. SEE aphis
aphis n. (pl. aphides) aphid. [invented by Linnaeus: perhaps a misreading of Greek koris bug]
aphorism n. short pithy maxim. aphoristic adj. [Greek aphorismos definition]
aphrodisiac -adj. arousing sexual desire. -n. aphrodisiac substance. [Greek Aphrodite goddess of love]
apiary n. (pl. -ies) place where bees are kept. apiarist n. [Latin apis bee]
apical adj. of, at, or forming an apex.
apiculture n. bee-keeping. apiculturist n. [Latin apis bee, *culture]
apiece adv. for each one; severally (five pounds apiece). [originally a piece]
apish adj. 1 of or like an ape. 2 foolishly imitating.
aplomb n. skilful self-assurance. [French, = straight as a plummet]
apocalypse n. 1 violent or destructive event. 2 (the Apocalypse) Revelation, the last book of the New Testament. 3 revelation, esp. about the end of the world. apocalyptic adj. [Greek apokalupto reveal]
Apocrypha n.pl. 1 books included in the Septuagint and Vulgate versions of the Old Testament but not in the Hebrew Bible. 2 (apocrypha) writings etc. not considered genuine. [Greek apokrupto hide away]
apocryphal adj. of doubtful authenticity.
apogee n. 1 highest point; climax. 2 point in a celestial body's orbit where it is furthest from the earth. [Greek apogeion]
apolitical adj. not interested in or concerned with politics.
apologetic -adj. 1 showing or expressing regret. 2 of apologetics. -n. (usu. in pl.) reasoned defence, esp. of Christianity. apologetically adv.
apologia n. formal defence of opinions or conduct. [Greek: see *apology]
apologist n. person who defends something by argument.
apologize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make an apology, express regret.
apology n. (pl. -ies) 1 statement of regret for an offence or failure. 2 explanation or defence. 3 (foll. by for) poor specimen of. [Greek apologia from apologeomai speak in defence]
apophthegm n. = *aphorism. [Latin from Greek]
apoplectic adj. 1 of or causing apoplexy. 2 colloq. enraged.
apoplexy n. sudden paralysis caused by blockage or rupture of a brain artery; stroke. [Greek apoplesso disable by stroke]
apostasy n. (pl. -ies) renunciation of a belief or faith, abandoning of principles, etc. [Greek, = defection]
apostate n. person who renounces a former belief etc. apostatize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing).
a posteriori -adj. (of reasoning) proceeding from effects to causes; inductive. -adv. inductively. [Latin, = from what comes after]
apostle n. 1 (Apostle) any of the twelve men sent out by Christ to preach the gospel. 2 leader, esp. of a new movement. [Greek apostolos messenger]
apostolate n. 1 position or authority of an Apostle. 2 leadership in reform.
apostolic adj. 1 of the Apostles or their teaching. 2 of the Pope.
apostolic succession n. supposed uninterrupted transmission of spiritual authority from the Apostles through popes and bishops.
apostrophe n. 1 punctuation mark (') indicating: a omission of letters or numbers (e.g. can't; May '92). b possessive case (e.g. Harry's book; boys' coats). 2 exclamatory passage addressed to (an often absent) person or thing. apostrophize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (in sense 2). [Greek, = turning away]
apothecaries' measure n. (also apothecaries' weight) units formerly used in pharmacy.
apothecary n. (pl. -ies) archaic dispensing chemist. [Greek apotheke storehouse]
apotheosis n. (pl. -theoses) 1 elevation to divine status, deification. 2 glorification of a thing; sublime example (apotheosis of chivalry). [Greek theos god]
appal v. (-ll-) 1 greatly dismay or horrify. 2 (as appalling adj.) colloq. very bad, shocking. [French apalir grow pale: related to *pale1]
apparatus n. 1 equipment for a particular function, esp. scientific or technical. 2 political or other complex organization. [Latin paro prepare]
apparel n. formal clothing, dress. apparelled adj. [Romanic, = make fit, from Latin par equal]
apparent adj. 1 readily visible; obvious. 2 seeming. apparently adv. [Latin: related to *appear]
apparition n. remarkable or unexpected thing that appears; ghost or phantom.
appeal -v. 1 request earnestly or formally; plead. 2 (usu. foll. by to) attract, be of interest. 3 (foll. by to) resort to for support. 4 Law a (often foll. by to) apply (to a higher court) for reconsideration of a legal decision. b refer (a case) to a higher court. 5 Cricket call on the umpire to declare whether a batsman is out. -n. 1 act of appealing. 2 request for public support, esp. financial. 3 Law referral of a case to a higher court. 4 attractiveness. [Latin appello address]
appear v. 1 become or be visible. 2 seem (appeared unwell). 3 present oneself publicly or formally. 4 be published. [Latin appareo]
appearance n. 1 act of appearing. 2 outward form as perceived (appearance of prosperity). 3 semblance. keep up appearances maintain an impression or pretence of virtue, affluence, etc. make (or put in) an appearance be present, esp. briefly.
appease v. (-sing) 1 make calm or quiet, esp. conciliate (a potential aggressor) by making concessions. 2 satisfy (an appetite, scruples). appeasement n. [French à to, pais *peace]
appellant n. person who appeals to a higher court. [Latin appello address]
appellate attrib. adj. (esp. of a court) concerned with appeals.
appellation n. formal name or title; nomenclature.
appellative adj. 1 naming. 2 Gram. (of a noun) designating a class, common.
append v. (usu. foll. by to) attach, affix, add, esp. to a written document. [Latin appendo hang]
appendage n. thing attached; addition.
appendectomy n. (also appendicectomy) (pl. -ies) surgical removal of the appendix. [from *appendix, *-ectomy]
appendicitis n. inflammation of the appendix.
appendix n. (pl. -dices) 1 tissue forming a tube-shaped sac attached to the large intestine. 2 addition to a book etc. [Latin: related to *append]
appertain v. (foll. by to) relate, belong, or be appropriate. [Latin: related to *pertain]
appetite n. 1 natural craving, esp. for food or sexual activity. 2 (usu. foll. by for) inclination or desire. [Latin peto seek]
appetizer n. (also -iser) small amount, esp. of food or drink, to stimulate the appetite.
appetizing adj. (also -ising) stimulating the appetite, esp. for food; tasty.
applaud v. 1 express strong approval, esp. by clapping. 2 commend, approve (a person or action). [Latin applaudo clap hands]
applause n. 1 approval shown by clapping the hands. 2 warm approval.
apple n. 1 roundish firm fruit with crisp flesh. 2 tree bearing this. apple of one's eye cherished person or thing. [Old English]
apple-pie bed n. bed made (as a joke) with sheets folded so as to prevent a person lying flat.
apple-pie order n. extreme neatness.
appliance n. device etc. for a specific task. [related to *apply]
applicable adj. (often foll. by to) that may be applied; relevant; appropriate. applicability n. [medieval Latin: related to *apply]
applicant n. person who applies for something, esp. a job.
application n. 1 formal request. 2 act of applying. 3 substance applied. 4 a relevance. b use (has many applications). 5 diligence.
applicator n. device for applying ointment etc.
applied adj. practical, not merely theoretical (applied science).
appliqué -n. cutting out of fabric patterns and attaching them to another fabric. -v. (-qués, -quéd, -quéing) decorate with appliqué. [French, = applied]
apply v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often foll. by for, to, or to + infin.) formally request. 2 be relevant. 3 a make use of; employ (apply the rules; apply common sense). b operate (apply the brakes). 4 (often foll. by to) put or spread on. 5 refl. (often foll. by to) devote oneself. [Latin applico fasten to]
appoint v. 1 assign a job or office to. 2 (often foll. by for) fix (a time, place, etc.). 3 (as appointed adj.) equipped, furnished (well-appointed). appointee n. [French à point to a point]
appointment n. 1 appointing or being appointed. 2 arrangement for meeting or consultation. 3 a post or office open to applicants. b person appointed. 4 (usu. in pl.) furniture, fittings; equipment.
apportion v. (often foll. by to) share out; assign as a share. apportionment n. [medieval Latin: related to *portion]
apposite adj. (often foll. by to) apt, appropriate; well expressed. [Latin appono apply]
apposition n. juxtaposition, esp. Gram. of elements sharing a syntactic function (e.g. William the Conqueror; my friend Sue).
appraisal n. appraising or being appraised.
appraise v. (-sing) 1 estimate the value or quality of. 2 set a price on (esp. officially). [earlier apprize, assimilated to *praise]
appreciable adj. significant, considerable. [French: related to *appreciate]
appreciate v. (-ting) 1 a esteem highly; value. b be grateful for. 2 understand, recognize (appreciate the danger). 3 rise or raise in value. appreciative adj. appreciatory adj. [Latin pretium price]
appreciation n. 1 favourable or grateful recognition. 2 sensitive estimation or judgement. 3 rise in value. [French: related to *appreciate]
apprehend v. 1 seize, arrest. 2 understand, perceive. [Latin prehendo grasp]
apprehension n. 1 uneasiness, dread. 2 understanding. 3 arrest, capture.
apprehensive adj. uneasily fearful. apprehensively adv.
apprentice -n. 1 person learning a trade by working in it for an agreed period at low wages. 2 novice. -v. (-cing) (usu. foll. by to) engage as an apprentice (apprenticed to a builder). apprenticeship n. [French apprendre learn]
apprise v. (-sing) formal inform. [French appris(e) learnt, taught]
appro n. colloq. on appro = on approval (see *approval). [abbreviation]
approach -v. 1 come near or nearer (to) in space or time. 2 tentatively propose to. 3 be similar or approximate to (approaching 5 million). 4 set about (a task etc.). -n. 1 act or means of approaching. 2 approximation. 3 technique (try a new approach). 4 Golf stroke from the fairway to the green. 5 Aeron. part of a flight before landing. [Latin prope near]
approachable adj. 1 friendly, easy to talk to. 2 able to be approached.
approbation n. approval, consent. [Latin probo test]
appropriate -adj. suitable, proper. -v. (-ting) 1 take, esp. without authority. 2 devote (money etc.) to special purposes. appropriately adv. appropriation n. [Latin proprius own]
approval n. 1 approving. 2 consent; favourable opinion. on approval (of goods supplied) returnable if not satisfactory.
approve v. (-ving) 1 confirm; sanction. 2 (often foll. by of) regard with favour. [Latin probo test]
approx. abbr. approximate(ly).
approximate -adj. fairly correct, near to the actual (approximate price). -v. (-ting) (often foll. by to) bring or come near (esp. in quality, number, etc.). approximately adv. approximation n. [Latin proximus nearest]
appurtenance n. (usu. in pl.) belonging; accessory. [Latin pertineo belong to]
APR abbr. annual or annualized percentage rate (esp. of interest on loans or credit).
Apr. abbr. April.
après-ski -n. social activities following a day's skiing. -attrib. adj. (of clothes, drinks, etc.) suitable for these. [French]
apricot -n. 1 a small juicy soft orange-yellow peachlike fruit. b tree bearing it. 2 its colour. -adj. orange-yellow. [Portuguese and Spanish from Arabic, ultimately from Latin praecox early-ripe]
April n. fourth month of the year. [Latin]
April Fool n. person successfully tricked on 1 April.
a priori -adj. 1 (of reasoning) from causes to effects; deductive. 2 (of concepts etc.) logically independent of experience; not derived from experience. 3 assumed without investigation (an a priori conjecture). -adv. 1 deductively. 2 as far as one knows. [Latin, = from what is before]
apron n. 1 garment for covering and protecting the front of the clothes. 2 Theatr. part of a stage in front of the curtain. 3 area on an airfield for manoeuvring or loading. tied to a person's apron-strings dominated by or dependent on that person (usu. a woman). [originally napron, from French nape table-cloth]
apropos -adj. 1 appropriate. 2 colloq. (often foll. by of) in respect of. -adv. 1 appropriately. 2 (absol.) incidentally. [French à propos]
apse n. large arched or domed recess, esp. at the end of a church. [related to *apsis]
apsis n. (pl. apsides) either of two points on the orbit of a planet etc. nearest to or furthest from the body round which it moves. [Greek (h)apsis arch, vault]
apt adj. 1 appropriate, suitable. 2 tending (apt to break down). 3 clever; quick to learn. [Latin aptus fitted]
aptitude n. 1 natural talent. 2 ability or fitness, esp. specified. [French: related to *apt]
aqua n. the colour aquamarine. [abbreviation]
aqua fortis n. nitric acid. [Latin, = strong water]
aqualung n. portable breathing-apparatus for divers. [Latin aqua water]
aquamarine -n. 1 bluish-green beryl. 2 its colour. -adj. bluish-green. [Latin aqua marina sea water]
aquaplane -n. board for riding on water, pulled by a speedboat. -v. (-ning) 1 ride on this. 2 (of a vehicle) glide uncontrollably on a wet surface. [Latin aqua water, *plane1]
aqua regia n. highly corrosive mixture of acids, attacking many substances unaffected by other reagents. [Latin, = royal water]
aquarelle n. painting in thin usu. transparent water-colours. [French from Italian]
aquarium n. (pl. -s) tank of water for keeping and showing fish etc. [Latin aquarius of water]
Aquarius n. (pl. -es) 1 constellation and eleventh sign of the zodiac (the Water-carrier). 2 person born when the sun is in this sign. [Latin: related to *aquarium]
aquatic -adj. 1 growing or living in water. 2 (of a sport) played in or on water. -n. 1 aquatic plant or animal. 2 (in pl.) aquatic sports. [Latin aqua water]
aquatint n. etched print resembling a water-colour. [Italian acqua tinta coloured water]
aqua vitae n. strong alcoholic spirit, esp. brandy. [Latin, = water of life]
aqueduct n. water channel, esp. a bridge on columns across a valley. [Latin aquae ductus conduit]
aqueous adj. of or like water. [Latin aqua water]
aqueous humour n. clear fluid in the eye between the lens and the cornea.
aquilegia n. (usu. blue-flowered) columbine. [Latin]
aquiline adj. 1 of or like an eagle. 2 (of a nose) curved. [Latin aquila eagle]
Ar symb. argon.
-ar suffix forming adjectives (angular; linear). [Latin -aris]
Arab -n. 1 member of a Semitic people originating in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries, now widespread throughout the Middle East. 2 horse of a breed orig. native to Arabia. -adj. of Arabia or the Arabs (esp. with ethnic reference). [Arabic araps]
arabesque n. 1 Ballet posture with one leg extended horizontally backwards and arms outstretched. 2 design of intertwined leaves, scrolls, etc. 3 Mus. florid piece. [French from Italian from arabo Arab]
Arabian -adj. of or relating to Arabia (esp. in geographical contexts) (Arabian desert). -n. native of Arabia.
Arabic -n. Semitic language of the Arabs. -adj. of the Arabs (esp. their language or literature).
arabic numeral n. any of the numerals 0-9.
arable adj. (of land) suitable for crop production. [Latin aro to plough]
arachnid n. arthropod of a class comprising spiders, scorpions, etc. [Greek arakhne spider]
arak var. of *arrack.
Araldite n. propr. epoxy resin for mending china etc. [origin unknown]
Aramaic -n. branch of the Semitic family of languages, esp. the language of Syria used as a lingua franca in the Near East from the sixth century BC. -adj. of or in Aramaic. [Greek Aramaios of Aram (Hebrew name of Syria)]
arbiter n. 1 arbitrator in a dispute. 2 person influential in a specific field (arbiter of taste). [Latin from arbitror to judge]
arbitrary adj. 1 random. 2 capricious; despotic. arbitrarily adv.
arbitrate v. (-ting) decide by arbitration.
arbitration n. settlement of a dispute by an impartial third party.
arbitrator n. person appointed to arbitrate.
arbor1 n. axle or spindle. [Latin, = tree]
arbor n. (Brit. arbour) shady garden alcove enclosed by trees etc. [Latin herba herb: assimilated to Latin arbor tree]
arboreal adj. of or living in trees. [Latin arbor tree]
arborescent adj. treelike in growth or form.
arboretum n. (pl. -ta) place cultivating and displaying rare trees.
arboriculture n. cultivation of trees and shrubs. [Latin arbor tree, after agriculture]
arbor vitae n. any of various evergreen conifers. [Latin, = tree of life]
arbour n. (US arbor) shady garden alcove enclosed by trees etc. [Latin herba herb: assimilated to Latin arbor tree]
arbutus n. tree or shrub with clusters of flowers and strawberry-like berries. [Latin]
arc -n. 1 part of the circumference of a circle or other curve. 2 Electr. luminous discharge between two electrodes. -v. (arced; arcing) form an arc; move in a curve. [Latin arcus bow]
arcade n. 1 covered walk, esp. lined with shops. 2 series of arches supporting or set along a wall. [Romanic: related to *arc]
Arcadian -n. idealized country dweller. -adj. poetically rural. [Greek Arkadia in the Peloponnese]
arcane adj. mysterious, secret. [Latin arceo shut up]
arch1 -n. 1 curved structure as an opening, as a support for a bridge, floor, etc., or as an ornament. 2 any arch-shaped curve. -v. 1 provide with or form into an arch. 2 span like an arch. 3 form an arch. [Latin arcus arc]
arch2 adj. self-consciously or affectedly playful. archly adv. [from *arch-, originally in arch rogue etc.]
arch- comb. form 1 chief, superior (archbishop). 2 pre-eminent, esp. unfavourably (arch-enemy). [Greek arkhos chief]
Archaean (US Archean) -adj. of the earliest geological era. -n. this time. [Greek arkhaios ancient]
archaeology n. (US archeology) study of ancient cultures, esp. by the excavation and analysis of physical remains. archaeological adj. archaeologist n. [Greek arkhaiologia ancient history]
archaeopteryx n. fossil bird with teeth, feathers, and a reptilian tail. [Greek arkhaios ancient, pterux wing]
archaic adj. 1 a antiquated. b (of a word etc.) no longer in ordinary use. 2 of an early period of culture. archaically adv. [Greek arkhe beginning]
archaism n. 1 use of the archaic esp. in language or art. 2 archaic word or expression. archaistic adj.
archangel n. angel of the highest rank.
archbishop n. chief bishop of a province.
archbishopric n. office or diocese of an archbishop.
archdeacon n. church dignitary next below a bishop. archdeaconry n. (pl. -ies).
archdiocese n. diocese of an archbishop. archdiocesan adj.
archduke n. hist. chief duke (esp. as the title of a son of the Emperor of Austria). archduchy n. (pl. -ies). [medieval Latin archidux]
Archean (Brit. Archaean) -adj. of the earliest geological era. -n. this time. [Greek arkhaios ancient]
arch-enemy n. (pl. -ies) 1 chief enemy. 2 the Devil.
archeology n. (Brit. archaeology) study of ancient cultures, esp. by the excavation and analysis of physical remains. archeological adj. archeologist n. [Greek arkhaiologia ancient history]
archer n. 1 person who shoots with a bow and arrows. 2 (the Archer) zodiacal sign or constellation Sagittarius. [Latin arcus bow]
archery n. shooting with a bow and arrows, esp. as a sport.
archetype n. 1 original model; prototype. 2 typical specimen. archetypal adj. [Greek tupon stamp]
archidiaconal adj. of an archdeacon. [medieval Latin]
archiepiscopal adj. of an archbishop. [Church Latin from Greek]
archimandrite n. 1 superior of a large monastery in the Orthodox Church. 2 honorary title of a monastic priest. [Greek arkhi- chief, mandrites monk]
archipelago n. (pl. -s) 1 group of islands. 2 sea with many islands. [Greek arkhi- chief, pelagos sea]
architect n. 1 designer of buildings etc., supervising their construction. 2 (foll. by of) person who brings about a specified thing (architect of peace). [Greek arkhi- chief, tekton builder]
architectonic adj. 1 of architecture. 2 of the systematization of knowledge.
architecture n. 1 design and construction of buildings. 2 style of a building. 3 buildings etc. collectively. architectural adj.
architrave n. 1 (in classical architecture) main beam resting across the tops of columns. 2 moulded frame around a doorway or window. [Italian archi- *arch-, Latin trabs beam]
archive -n. (usu. in pl.) 1 collection of documents or records. 2 store for these. -v. (-ving) 1 place or store in an archive. 2 Computing transfer (data) to a less frequently used file. [Greek arkheia public records]
archivist n. keeper of archives.
archway n. arched entrance or passage.
arc lamp n. (also arc light) light using an electric arc.
Arctic -adj. 1 of the north polar regions. 2 (arctic) colloq. very cold. -n. Arctic regions. [Greek arktos Great Bear]
Arctic Circle n. parallel of latitude 66° 33´ N, forming an imaginary line round the Arctic region.
arc welding n. use of an electric arc to melt metals to be welded.
ardent adj. 1 eager, fervent, passionate. 2 burning. ardently adv. [Latin ardeo burn]
ardor n. (Brit. ardour) zeal, enthusiasm, passion.
ardour n. (US ardor) zeal, enthusiasm, passion.
arduous adj. hard to accomplish; laborious, strenuous. [Latin, = steep]
are1 2nd sing. present & 1st, 2nd, 3rd pl. present of *be.
are2 n. metric unit of measure, 100 square metres. [Latin: related to *area]
area n. 1 extent or measure of a surface (over a large area). 2 region (southern area). 3 space for a specific purpose (dining area). 4 scope or range. 5 space in front of the basement of a building. [Latin, = vacant space]
arena n. 1 central part of an amphitheatre etc. 2 scene of conflict; sphere of action. [Latin, = sand]
aren't contr. 1 are not. 2 (in interrog.) am not (aren't I coming too?).
areola n. (pl. -lae) circular pigmented area, esp. around a nipple. areolar adj. [Latin diminutive of *area]
arête n. sharp mountain ridge. [French from Latin arista spine]
argent n. & adj. Heraldry silver; silvery-white. [Latin argentum]
argon n. inert gaseous element. [Greek argos idle]
argosy n. (pl. -ies) poet. large merchant ship. [Italian Ragusea nave ship of Ragusa (in Dalmatia)]
argot n. jargon of a group or class. [French]
argue v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) 1 (often foll. by with, about, etc.) exchange views forcefully or contentiously. 2 (often foll. by that) maintain by reasoning; indicate. 3 (foll. by for, against) reason. 4 treat (a matter) by reasoning. 5 (foll. by into, out of) persuade. argue the toss colloq. dispute a choice already made. arguable adj. arguably adv. [Latin arguo make clear, prove]
argument n. 1 (esp. contentious) exchange of views; dispute. 2 (often foll. by for, against) reason given; reasoning process. 3 summary of a book etc.
argumentation n. methodical reasoning; arguing.
argumentative adj. given to arguing.
Argus n. watchful guardian. [Greek Argos mythical giant with 100 eyes]
argy-bargy n. (pl. -ies) joc. dispute, wrangle. [originally Scots]
aria n. long accompanied solo song in an opera etc. [Italian]
arid adj. 1 dry, parched. 2 uninteresting. aridity n. [Latin areo be dry]
Aries n. (pl. same) 1 constellation and first sign of the zodiac (the Ram). 2 person born when the sun is in this sign. [Latin, = ram]
aright adv. rightly.
arise v. (-sing; past arose; past part. arisen) 1 originate. 2 (usu. foll. by from, out of) result. 3 come to one's notice; emerge. 4 rise, esp. from the dead or from kneeling. [Old English a- intensive prefix]
aristocracy n. (pl. -ies) 1 ruling class or élite; nobility. 2 a government by an élite. b State so governed. 3 (often foll. by of) best representatives. [Greek aristokratia rule by the best]
aristocrat n. member of the aristocracy.
aristocratic adj. 1 of or like the aristocracy. 2 a distinguished. b grand, stylish.
Aristotelian -n. disciple or student of Aristotle. -adj. of Aristotle or his ideas. [Greek Aristoteles (4th c. BC), name of a Greek philosopher]
arithmetic -n. 1 science of numbers. 2 use of numbers; computation. -adj. (also arithmetical) of arithmetic. [Greek arithmos number]
arithmetic mean n. = *average 2.
arithmetic progression n. sequence of numbers with constant intervals (e.g. 9, 7, 5, 3, etc.).
ark n. ship in which Noah escaped the Flood with his family and animals. [Old English from Latin arca]
Ark of the Covenant n. chest or cupboard containing the tables of Jewish Law.
arm1 n. 1 upper limb of the human body from shoulder to hand. 2 forelimb or tentacle of an animal. 3 a sleeve of a garment. b arm support of a chair etc. c thing branching from a main stem (an arm of the sea). d control, means of reaching (arm of the law). arm in arm with arms linked. at arm's length at a distance. with open arms cordially. armful n. (pl. -s). [Old English]
arm2 -n. 1 (usu. in pl.) weapon. 2 (in pl.) military profession. 3 branch of the military (e.g. infantry, cavalry). 4 (in pl.) heraldic devices (coat of arms). -v. 1 supply, or equip oneself, with weapons etc., esp. in preparation for war. 2 make (a bomb etc.) ready. take up arms go to war. under arms equipped for war. up in arms (usu. foll. by against, about) actively resisting, highly indignant. [Latin arma arms]
armada n. fleet of warships, esp. (Armada) that sent by Spain against England in 1588. [Spanish from Romanic]
armadillo n. (pl. -s) S. American mammal with a plated body and large claws. [Spanish armado armed man]
Armageddon n. huge battle or struggle, esp. marking the end of the world. [Rev. 16:16]
armament n. 1 (often in pl.) military equipment. 2 equipping for war. 3 force equipped. [Latin: related to *arm2]
armature n. 1 rotating coil or coils of a dynamo or electric motor. 2 iron bar placed across the poles of a horseshoe magnet to preserve its power. 3 metal framework on which a sculpture is moulded. [Latin armatura, = armour]
armband n. band worn around the upper arm to hold up a shirtsleeve, or as identification, or to aid swimming.
armchair n. 1 chair with arm supports. 2 (attrib.) theoretical rather than active (armchair critic).
armhole n. each of two holes for arms in a garment.
armistice n. truce, esp. permanent. [Latin arma arms, sisto make stand]
Armistice Day n. anniversary of the armistice of 11 Nov. 1918.
armlet n. ornamental band worn round the arm.
armor (Brit. armour) -n. 1 protective usu. metal covering formerly worn in fighting. 2 a (in full armour-plate) protective metal covering for an armed vehicle, ship, etc. b armed vehicles collectively. 3 protective covering or shell of an animal or plant. 4 heraldic devices. -v. (usu. asarmoured adj.) provide with protective covering, and often guns (armoured car; armoured train). [Latin armatura: related to *arm2]
armorial adj. of heraldry or coats of arms. [related to *armour]
armour -n. 1 protective usu. metal covering formerly worn in fighting. 2 a (in full armour-plate) protective metal covering for an armed vehicle, ship, etc. b armed vehicles collectively. 3 protective covering or shell of an animal or plant. 4 heraldic devices. -v. (usu. as armoured adj.) provide with protective covering, and often guns (armoured car; armoured train). [Latin armatura: related to *arm2]
armourer n. 1 maker of arms or armour. 2 official in charge of arms.
armoury n. (pl. -ies) arsenal.
armpit n. hollow under the arm at the shoulder.
armrest n. = *arm1 3b.
arms race n. competitive accumulation of weapons by nations.
arm-wrestling n. trial of strength in which each party tries to force the other's arm down.
army n. (pl. -ies) 1 organized armed land force. 2 (prec. by the) the military profession. 3 (often foll. by of) very large number (army of locusts). 4 organized civilian body (Salvation Army). [French: related to *arm2]
arnica n. 1 plant of the daisy family with yellow flowers. 2 medicine prepared from this. [origin unknown]
aroma n. 1 esp. pleasing smell, often of food. 2 subtle pervasive quality. [Greek, = spice]
aromatherapy n. use of plant extracts and oils in massage. aromatherapist n.
aromatic -adj. 1 fragrant, spicy. 2 Chem. of organic compounds having an unsaturated ring, esp. containing a benzene ring. -n. aromatic substance. [Latin: related to *aroma]
arose past of *arise.
around -adv. 1 on every side; all round; round about. 2 colloq. a in existence; available. b near at hand. 3 here and there (shop around). -prep. 1 on or along the circuit of. 2 on every side of. 3 here and there in or near (chairs around the room). 4 a round (church around the corner). b at a time near to (came around four o'clock). have been around colloq. be widely experienced.
arouse v. (-sing) 1 induce (esp. an emotion). 2 awake from sleep. 3 stir into activity. 4 stimulate sexually. arousal n. [a- intensive prefix]
arpeggio n. (pl. -s) Mus. notes of a chord played in succession. [Italian arpa harp]
arrack n. (also arak) alcoholic spirit, esp. made from coco sap or rice. [Arabic]
arraign v. 1 indict, accuse. 2 find fault with; call into question (an action or statement). arraignment n. [Latin ratio reason]
arrange v. (-ging) 1 put into order; classify. 2 plan or provide for; take measures (arranged a meeting; arrange to see him; arranged for a taxi). 3 agree (arranged it with her). 4 Mus. adapt (a composition) for a particular manner of performance. [French: related to *range]
arrangement n. 1 arranging or being arranged. 2 manner of this. 3 something arranged. 4 (in pl.) plans, measures (made my own arrangements). 5 Mus. composition adapted for performance in a particular way.
arrant adj. literary downright, utter (arrant liar). [var. of *errant, originally in arrant (= outlawed, roving) thief etc.]
arras n. hist. rich tapestry or wall-hanging. [Arras in France]
array -n. 1 imposing or well-ordered series or display. 2 ordered arrangement, esp. of troops (battle array). -v. 1 deck, adorn. 2 set in order; marshal (forces). [Latin ad-, *ready]
arrears n.pl. amount (esp. of work, rent, etc.) still outstanding or uncompleted. in arrears behind, esp. in payment. [medieval Latin adretro behindhand]
arrest -v. 1 lawfully seize (a suspect etc.). 2 stop or check the progress of. 3 attract (a person's attention). -n. 1 arresting or being arrested. 2 stoppage (cardiac arrest). [Latin resto remain]
arrester n. device for slowing an aircraft after landing.
arrière-pensée n. 1 secret motive. 2 mental reservation. [French]
arris n. Archit. sharp edge at the junction of two surfaces. [French areste, = *arête]
arrival n. 1 arriving; appearance on the scene. 2 person or thing that has arrived.
arrive v. (-ving) 1 (often foll. by at, in) reach a destination. 2 (foll. by at) reach (a conclusion etc.). 3 colloq. become successful. 4 colloq. (of a child) be born. 5 (of a time) come. [Latin ripa shore]
arriviste n. ambitious or ruthless person. [French: related to *arrive]
arrogant adj. aggressively assertive or presumptuous. arrogance n. arrogantly adv. [related to *arrogate]
arrogate v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. by to oneself) claim (power etc.) without right. 2 (often foll. by to) attribute unjustly (to a person). arrogation n. [Latin rogo ask]
arrow n. 1 pointed slender missile shot from a bow. 2 representation of this, esp. indicating direction. [Old English]
arrowhead n. 1 pointed tip of an arrow. 2 water-plant with arrow-shaped leaves.
arrowroot n. 1 nutritious starch. 2 plant yielding this.
arse n. (US ass) coarse slang buttocks. [Old English]
arsehole n. (US asshole) coarse slang 1 anus. 2 offens. contemptible person.
arsenal n. 1 store, esp. of weapons. 2 place for the storage and manufacture of weapons and ammunition. [Arabic, = workshop]
arsenic -n. 1 non-scientific name for arsenic trioxide, a highly poisonous white powder used in weed-killers etc. 2 Chem. brittle semi-metallic element. -adj. of or containing arsenic. [French, ultimately from Persian zar gold]
arson n. crime of deliberately setting fire to property. arsonist n. [Latin ardeo ars- burn]
art n. 1 a human creative skill or its application. b work showing this. 2 a (in pl.; prec. by the) branches of creative activity concerned with the production of imaginative designs, sounds, or ideas, e.g. painting, music, writing. b any one of these. 3 creative activity resulting in visual representation (good at music but not art). 4 human skill as opposed to nature (art and nature combined). 5 (often foll. by of) a skill, knack. b cunning; trick, stratagem. 6 (in pl.; usu. prec. by the) supposedly creative subjects (esp. languages, literature, and history) as opposed to scientific, technical, or vocational subjects. [Latin ars art-]
art deco n. decorative art style of 1910-30, with geometric motifs and strong colours.
artefact n. (also artifact) man-made object, esp. a tool or vessel as an archaeological item. [Latin arte by art, facio make]
arterial adj. 1 of or like an artery. 2 (esp. of a road) main, important. [French: related to *artery]
arteriosclerosis n. loss of elasticity and thickening of artery walls, esp. in old age. [from *artery, *sclerosis]
artery n. (pl. -ies) 1 any of the blood-vessels carrying blood from the heart. 2 main road or railway line. [Greek, probably from airo raise]
artesian well n. well in which water rises to the surface by natural pressure through a vertically drilled hole. [Artois, old French province]
artful adj. crafty, deceitful. artfully adv.
arthritis n. inflammation of a joint or joints. arthritic adj. & n. [Greek arthron joint]
arthropod n. invertebrate with a segmented body and jointed limbs, e.g. an insect, spider, or crustacean. [Greek arthron joint, pous pod- foot]
artichoke n. 1 plant allied to the thistle. 2 (in full globe artichoke) its partly edible flower-head (see also *Jerusalem artichoke). [Italian from Arabic]
article -n. 1 item or thing. 2 non-fictional journalistic essay. 3 clause or item in an agreement or contract. 4 definite or indefinite article. -v. (-ling) employ under contract as a trainee. [Latin articulus from artus joint]
articled clerk n. trainee solicitor.
articular adj. of a joint or joints. [Latin: related to *article]
articulate -adj. 1 fluent and clear in speech. 2 (of sound or speech) having clearly distinguishable parts. 3 having joints. -v. (-ting) 1 a pronounce distinctly. b speak or express clearly. 2 (usu. in passive) connect by joints. 3 mark with apparent joints. 4 (often foll. by with) form a joint. articulately adv.
articulated lorry n. one with sections connected by a flexible joint.
articulation n. 1 a speaking or being spoken. b articulate utterance; speech. 2 a act or mode of jointing. b joint. [Latin: related to *articulate]
artifact var. of *artefact.
artifice n. 1 trick or clever device. 2 cunning. 3 skill, ingenuity. [Latin ars art- art, facio make]
artificer n. 1 craftsman. 2 skilled military mechanic.
artificial adj. 1 not natural (artificial lake). 2 imitating nature (artificial flowers). 3 affected, insincere. artificiality n. artificially adv. [Latin: related to *artifice]
artificial insemination n. non-sexual injection of semen into the uterus.
artificial intelligence n. use of computers for tasks normally regarded as needing human intelligence.
artificial respiration n. manual or mechanical stimulation of breathing.
artillery n. (pl. -ies) 1 heavy guns used in land warfare. 2 branch of the army using these. artilleryman n. [French artiller equip]
artisan n. skilled manual worker or craftsman. [Latin artio instruct in the arts]
artist n. 1 practitioner of any of the arts, esp. painting. 2 artiste. 3 person using skill or taste. artistry n. [French artiste from Italian]
artiste n. professional performer, esp. a singer or dancer.
artistic adj. 1 having natural skill in art. 2 skilfully or tastefully done. 3 of art or artists. artistically adv.
artless adj. 1 guileless, ingenuous. 2 natural. 3 clumsy. artlessly adv.
art nouveau n. art style of the late 19th century, with flowing lines.
artwork n. 1 illustrative material in printed matter. 2 works of art collectively (exhibition of children's artwork).
arty adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. pretentiously or affectedly artistic.
arum n. plant with arrow-shaped leaves. [Greek aron]
-ary suffix forming adjectives (contrary; primary). [French -aire, Latin -ari(u)s]
Aryan -n. 1 speaker of any of the languages of the Indo-European family. 2 improperly (in Nazi ideology) non-Jewish Caucasian. -adj. of Aryans. [Sanskrit]
As symb. arsenic.
as1 -adv. & conj. (adv. as antecedent in main sentence; conj. in relative clause expressed or implied) to the extent to which … is or does etc. (am as tall as he; am as tall as he is; (colloq.) am as tall as him; as recently as last week). -conj. (with relative clause expressed or implied) 1 (with antecedent so) expressing result or purpose (came early so as to meet us). 2 (with antecedent adverb omitted) although (good as it is = although it is good). 3 (without antecedent adverb) a in the manner in which (do as you like; rose as one man). b in the capacity or form of (I speak as your friend; Olivier as Hamlet). c while (arrived as I was eating). d since, seeing that (as you are here, we can talk). e for instance (cathedral cities, as York). -rel. pron. (with verb of relative clause expressed or implied) 1 that, who, which (I had the same trouble as you; he is a writer, as is his wife; such countries as France). 2 (with a sentence as antecedent) a fact that (he lost, as you know). as for with regard to (as for you, I think you are wrong). as from on and after (a specified date). as if (or though) as would be the case if (acts as if he were in charge). as it were in a way; to some extent (he is, as it were, infatuated). as long as see *long1. as much see *much. as of 1 = as from. 2 as at (a specified time). as per see *per. as regards see *regard. as soon as see *soon. as such see *such. as though see as if. as to with regard to. as well 1 in addition. 2 advisable, desirable, reasonably. as well as in addition to. as yet until now or up to a particular time (have received no news as yet). [Old English, = *also]
as2 n. (pl. asses) Roman copper coin. [Latin]
asafetida n. (Brit. asafoetida) resinous pungent plant gum used in cooking and formerly in medicine. [Persian aza mastic: related to *fetid]
asafoetida n. (US asafetida) resinous pungent plant gum used in cooking and formerly in medicine. [Persian aza mastic: related to *fetid]
a.s.a.p. abbr. as soon as possible.
asbestos n. 1 fibrous silicate mineral. 2 this as a heat-resistant or insulating material. [Greek, = unquenchable]
ascend v. 1 move or slope upwards, rise. 2 climb; go up. ascend the throne become king or queen. [Latin scando climb]
ascendancy n. (often foll. by over) dominant power or control.
ascendant -adj. 1 rising. 2 Astron. rising towards the zenith. 3 Astrol. just above the eastern horizon. 4 predominant. -n. Astrol. ascendant point of the sun's apparent path. in the ascendant gaining or having power or authority.
ascension n. 1 ascent. 2 (Ascension) ascent of Christ into heaven.
ascent n. 1 ascending, rising, or progressing. 2 upward slope or path etc.
ascertain v. find out for certain. ascertainment n. [French: related to *certain]
ascetic -adj. severely abstinent; self-denying. -n. ascetic, esp. religious, person. asceticism n. [Greek askeo exercise]
ASCII abbr. Computing American Standard Code for Information Interchange.
ascorbic acid n. vitamin C, which prevents scurvy. [from *a-, *scorbutic]
ascribe v. (-bing) (usu. foll. by to) 1 attribute (ascribes his health to exercise). 2 regard as belonging. ascription n. [Latin scribo write]
asepsis n. 1 absence of sepsis or harmful micro-organisms. 2 method of achieving asepsis in surgery. aseptic adj.
asexual adj. 1 without sex, sexual organs, or sexuality. 2 (of reproduction) not involving the fusion of gametes. asexually adv.
ash1 n. 1 (often in pl.) powdery residue left after burning. 2 (pl.) human remains after cremation. 3 (the Ashes) Cricket trophy competed for by Australia and England. [Old English]
ash2 n. 1 tree with silver-grey bark. 2 its hard, pale wood. [Old English]
ashamed adj. (usu. predic.) 1 embarrassed by shame (ashamed of myself). 2 (foll. by to + infin.) hesitant, reluctant out of shame (am ashamed to say). [Old English a- intensive prefix]
ashcan n. US dustbin.
ashen adj. like ashes, esp. grey or pale.
Ashkenazi n. (pl. -zim) East European Jew. [Hebrew]
ashlar n. 1 large square-cut stone used in building; masonry made of these. 2 thin slabs of masonry used for facing walls. [Latin axis board]
ashore adv. towards or on the shore or land.
ashram n. place of religious retreat for Hindus. [Sanskrit]
ashtray n. small receptacle for cigarette ash, stubs, etc.
ashy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 = *ashen. 2 covered with ashes.
Asian -n. 1 native of Asia. 2 person of Asian descent. -adj. of Asia. [Latin from Greek]
Asiatic -n. offens. Asian. -adj. Asian. [Latin from Greek]
aside -adv. to or on one side; away, apart. -n. words spoken aside, esp. confidentially to the audience by an actor.
asinine adj. like an ass, esp. stupid or stubborn. asininity n. [Latin asinus ass]
ask v. 1 call for an answer to or about (ask her about it; ask him his name). 2 seek to obtain from someone (ask a favour of). 3 (usu. foll. by out, in, or over, or to (a function etc.)) invite (must ask them over; asked her to dinner). 4 (foll. by for) seek to obtain, meet, or be directed to (ask for help; asking for you; ask for the bar). ask after inquire about (esp. a person). ask for it slang invite trouble. [Old English]
askance adv. sideways or squinting. look askance at regard suspiciously. [origin unknown]
askew -adv. awry, crookedly. -predic. adj. oblique; awry.
aslant -adv. obliquely or at a slant. -prep. obliquely across.
asleep predic. adj. & adv. 1 a in or into a state of sleep. b inactive, inattentive. 2 (of a limb etc.) numb. 3 euphem. dead.
asp n. small venomous snake of North Africa or Southern Europe. [Greek aspis]
asparagus n. 1 plant of the lily family. 2 edible shoots of this. [Latin from Greek]
aspect n. 1 viewpoint, feature, etc. to be considered (one aspect of the problem). 2 appearance or look (cheerful aspect). 3 side of a building or location facing a particular direction (southern aspect). [Latin adspicio look at]
aspen n. poplar with very tremulous leaves. [Old English: originally adj.]
asperity n. (pl. -ies) 1 sharpness of temper or tone. 2 roughness; rough excrescence. [Latin asper rough]
aspersion n. cast aspersions on attack the reputation of. [Latin aspergo besprinkle]
asphalt -n. 1 dark bituminous pitch. 2 mixture of this with sand, gravel, etc., for surfacing roads etc. -v. surface with asphalt. [Latin from Greek]
asphodel n. 1 plant of the lily family. 2 poet. immortal flower growing in Elysium. [Latin from Greek]
asphyxia n. lack of oxygen in the blood, causing unconsciousness or death; suffocation. asphyxiant adj. & n. [Greek a- not, sphuxis pulse]
asphyxiate v. (-ting) suffocate. asphyxiation n.
aspic n. savoury jelly used esp. to contain game, eggs, etc. [French, = *asp, suggested by the colours of the jelly]
aspidistra n. house-plant with broad tapering leaves. [Greek aspis shield]
aspirant -adj. aspiring. -n. person who aspires. [Latin: related to *aspire]
aspirate -adj. pronounced with an exhalation of breath; blended with the sound of h. -n. sound of h; consonant pronounced in this way. -v. (-ting) 1 pronounce with breath or with initial h. 2 draw (fluid) by suction from a cavity etc.
aspiration n. 1 ambition or desire. 2 drawing breath or Phonet. aspirating.
aspirator n. apparatus for aspirating fluid. [Latin: related to *aspire]
aspire v. (-ring) (usu. foll. by to or after, or to + infin.) have ambition or a strong desire. [Latin aspiro breathe upon]
aspirin n. (pl. same or -s) 1 white powder, acetylsalicylic acid, used to reduce pain and fever. 2 tablet of this. [German]
ass1 n. 1 a four-legged long-eared mammal related to the horse. b donkey. 2 stupid person. [Old English from Latin]
ass n. (Brit. arse) coarse slang buttocks. [Old English]
assagai var. of *assegai.
assail v. 1 attack physically or verbally. 2 tackle (a task) resolutely. assailant n. [Latin salio leap]
assassin n. killer, esp. of a political or religious leader. [Arabic, = hashish-eater]
assassinate v. (-ting) kill for political or religious motives. assassination n.
assault -n. 1 violent physical or verbal attack. 2 Law threat or display of violence against a person. -v. make an assault on. assault and battery Law threatening act resulting in physical harm to a person. [Latin: related to *assail]
assay -n. testing of a metal or ore to determine its ingredients and quality. -v. make an assay of (a metal or ore). [French, var. of essai *essay]
assegai n. (also assagai) light iron-tipped S. African spear. [Arabic, = the spear]
assemblage n. 1 assembling. 2 assembled group.
assemble v. (-ling) 1 gather together; collect. 2 esp. Mech. fit together (components, a whole). [Latin ad to, simul together]
assembler n. 1 person who assembles a machine etc. 2 Computing a program for converting instructions written in low-level symbolic code into machine code. b the low-level symbolic code itself.
assembly n. (pl. -ies) 1 assembling. 2 assembled group, esp. as a deliberative body. 3 assembling of components.
assembly line n. machinery arranged so that a product can be progressively assembled.
assent -v. (usu. foll. by to) 1 express agreement. 2 consent. -n. consent or approval, esp. official. assenter n. [Latin sentio think]
assert v. 1 declare, state clearly. 2 refl. insist on one's rights. 3 enforce a claim to (assert one's rights). [Latin assero -sert-]
assertion n. declaration, forthright statement.
assertive adj. tending to assert oneself; forthright, positive. assertively adv. assertiveness n.
assess v. 1 estimate the size or quality of. 2 estimate the value of (property etc.) for taxation. assessment n. [Latin assideo -sess- sit by]
assessor n. 1 person who assesses (esp. for tax or insurance). 2 legal adviser on technical questions.
asset n. 1 useful or valuable person or thing. 2 (usu. in pl.) property and possessions, esp. that can be set against debts etc. [French asez from Latin ad satis to enough]
asset-stripping n. the taking over of a company and selling off of its assets to make a profit.
asseverate v. (-ting) declare solemnly. asseveration n. [Latin severus serious]
asshole n. (Brit. arsehole) coarse slang 1 anus. 2 offens. contemptible person.
assiduous adj. 1 persevering, hard-working. 2 attending closely. assiduity n. assiduously adv. [Latin: related to *assess]
assign -v. 1 (usu. foll. by to) a allot as a share or responsibility. b appoint to a position, task, etc. 2 fix (a time, place, etc.). 3 (foll. by to) ascribe to (a reason, date, etc.) (assigned the manuscript to 1832). 4 (foll. by to) Law transfer formally (esp. property) to (another). -n. assignee. assigner n. assignor n. Law. [Latin assigno mark out]
assignation n. 1 appointment to meet, esp. by lovers in secret. 2 assigning or being assigned.
assignee n. Law person to whom a right or property is assigned.
assignment n. 1 task or mission. 2 assigning or being assigned. 3 legal transfer.
assimilate v. (-ting) 1 absorb or be absorbed, either physically or mentally. 2 (usu. foll. by to, with) make like; cause to resemble. assimilable adj. assimilation n. assimilative adj. assimilator n. [Latin similis like]
assist v. (often foll. by in + verbal noun) help. assistance n. [Latin assisto stand by]
assistant n. 1 (often attrib.) person who helps, esp. as a subordinate. 2 = *shop assistant.
assizes n.pl. hist. court periodically administering the civil and criminal law. [French: related to *assess]
Usage In 1972 the civil jurisdiction of assizes in England and Wales was transferred to the High Court and the criminal jurisdiction to the Crown Court.
Assoc. abbr. Association.
associate -v. (-ting) 1 connect mentally (associate holly with Christmas). 2 join or combine, esp. for a common purpose. 3 refl. declare oneself or be in agreement. 4 (usu. foll. by with) meet frequently or deal. -n. 1 partner, colleague. 2 friend, companion. 3 subordinate member of a society etc. -adj. 1 joined or allied. 2 of lower status (associate member). associative adj. [Latin socius allied]
association n. 1 group organized for a joint purpose; society. 2 associating or being associated. 3 companionship. 4 mental connection of ideas. [medieval Latin: related to *associate]
Association Football n. football played with a round ball which may not be handled except by the goalkeepers.
assonance n. partial resemblance of sound between two syllables e.g. sonnet, porridge, and killed, cold, culled. assonant adj. [Latin sonus sound]
assort v. 1 classify or arrange in sorts. 2 (usu. foll. by with) suit or harmonize with. [French: related to *sort]
assorted adj. 1 of various sorts, mixed. 2 classified. 3 matched (ill-assorted pair).
assortment n. diverse group or mixture.
assuage v. (-ging) 1 calm or soothe. 2 appease (an appetite). assuagement n. [Latin suavis sweet]
assume v. (-ming) 1 (usu. foll. by that) take to be true. 2 simulate (ignorance etc.). 3 undertake (an office etc.). 4 take or put on (an aspect, attribute, etc.) (assumed immense importance). [Latin sumo take]
assuming adj. arrogant, presumptuous.
assumption n. 1 assuming. 2 thing assumed. 3 (Assumption) reception of the Virgin Mary bodily into heaven.
assurance n. 1 emphatic declaration; guarantee. 2 insurance, esp. life insurance. 3 certainty. 4 self-confidence; assertiveness.
assure v. (-ring) 1 (often foll. by of) a convince. b tell (a person) confidently (assured him all was well). 2 ensure; guarantee (a result etc.). 3 insure (esp. a life). 4 (as assured adj.) a guaranteed. b self-confident. [Latin securus safe]
assuredly adv. certainly.
AST abbr. Atlantic Standard Time.
astatine n. radioactive element, the heaviest of the halogens. [Greek astatos unstable]
aster n. plant with bright daisy-like flowers. [Greek, = star]
asterisk -n. symbol (*) used to mark words or to indicate omission etc. -v. mark with an asterisk. [Greek, = little star]
astern adv. (often foll. by of) 1 in or to the rear of a ship or aircraft. 2 backwards.
asteroid n. 1 any of the minor planets orbiting the sun, mainly between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. 2 starfish. [Greek: related to *aster]
asthma n. respiratory condition marked by wheezing. [Greek azo breathe hard]
asthmatic -adj. of or suffering from asthma. -n. asthmatic person.
astigmatism n. eye or lens defect resulting in distorted images. astigmatic adj. [from *a-, *stigma]
astir predic. adj. & adv. 1 in motion. 2 out of bed.
astonish v. surprise greatly, amaze. astonishment n. [Latin ex- forth, tono thunder]
astound v. astonish greatly.
astraddle adv. astride.
astrakhan n. 1 dark curly fleece of young Astrakhan lambs. 2 cloth imitating this. [Astrakhan in Russia]
astral adj. of the stars; starry. [Latin astrum star]
astray adv. & predic.adj. out of the right way, erring. go astray be missing. [Latin extra away, vagor wander]
astride -adv. 1 (often foll. by of) with a leg on each side. 2 with legs apart. -prep. astride of; extending across.
astringent -adj. 1 checking bleeding by contracting body tissues. 2 severe, austere. -n. astringent substance. astringency n. [Latin astringo draw tight]
astrolabe n. instrument formerly used to measure the altitude of stars etc. [Greek, = star-taking]
astrology n. study of supposed planetary influence on human affairs. astrologer n. astrological adj. astrologist n. [Greek astron star]
astronaut n. crew member of a spacecraft. [Greek astron star, nautes sailor]
astronautics n.pl. (treated as sing.) science of space travel. astronautical adj.
astronomical adj. (also astronomic) 1 of astronomy. 2 vast, gigantic. astronomically adv.
astronomy n. the scientific study of celestial bodies. astronomer n. [Greek astron star, nemo arrange]
astrophysics n.pl. (treated as sing.) the study of the physics and chemistry of celestial bodies. astrophysical adj. astrophysicist n. [Greek astron star]
astute adj. shrewd. astutely adv. astuteness n. [Latin astus craft]
asunder adv. literary apart.
asylum n. 1 sanctuary; protection, esp. for fugitives from the law (seek asylum). 2 hist. institution for the mentally ill or destitute. [Greek a- not, sulon right of seizure]
asymmetry n. lack of symmetry. asymmetric adj. asymmetrical adj. [Greek]
At symb. astatine.
at prep. 1 expressing position (wait at the corner; at school). 2 expressing a point in time (at dawn). 3 expressing a point in a scale (at his best). 4 expressing engagement in an activity etc. (at war). 5 expressing a value or rate (sell at £10 each). 6 a with or with reference to (annoyed at losing; came at a run). b by means of (starts at a touch). 7 expressing motion or aim towards (aim at the target; laughed at us). at all see *all. at hand see *hand. at home see *home. at it engaged in an activity; working hard. at once see *once. at that 1 moreover (a good one at that). 2 then (at that he left). at times see *time. [Old English]
atavism n. 1 reappearance of a remote ancestral characteristic, throwback. 2 reversion to an earlier type. atavistic adj. [Latin atavus ancestor]
ataxia n. Med. imperfect control of bodily movements. [Greek a- without, taxis order]
ate past of *eat.
-ate1 suffix forming nouns denoting status, function, or office (doctorate; consulate). [Latin]
-ate2 suffix forming adjectives with the sense 'having, full of' (foliate; passionate). [Latin participial ending -atus]
atelier n. workshop or artist's studio. [French]
atheism n. belief that there is no God. atheist n. atheistic adj. [Greek a- not, theos god]
atherosclerosis n. degeneration of the arteries caused by a build-up of fatty deposits. [Greek athere groats]
athirst predic. adj. poet. 1 (usu. foll. by for) eager. 2 thirsty.
athlete n. person who engages in athletics, exercise, etc. [Greek athlon prize]
athlete's foot n. fungal foot condition.
athletic adj. 1 of athletes or athletics. 2 physically strong or agile. athletically adv. athleticism n. [Latin: related to *athlete]
athletics n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) physical exercises, esp. track and field events.
at-home n. social reception in a person's home.
-ation suffix 1 forming nouns denoting an action or an instance of it (flirtation; hesitation). 2 forming nouns denoting a result or product of action (plantation; starvation). [Latin -atio]
Atlantic adj. of or adjoining the ocean between Europe and Africa to the east and America to the west. [Greek: related to *atlas]
atlas n. book of maps or charts. [Greek Atlas, the Titan who held up the universe]
atmosphere n. 1 a gases enveloping the earth, any other planet, etc. b air in a room etc., esp. if fetid. 2 pervading tone or mood of a place, situation, or work of art. 3 unit of pressure equal to mean atmospheric pressure at sea level, 101,325 pascals. atmospheric adj. [Greek atmos vapour, *sphere]
atmospherics n.pl. 1 electrical atmospheric disturbance, esp. caused by lightning. 2 interference with telecommunications caused by this.
atoll n. ring-shaped coral reef enclosing a lagoon. [Maldive]
atom n. 1 a smallest particle of a chemical element that can take part in a chemical reaction. b this as a source of nuclear energy. 2 minute portion or thing (atom of pity). [Greek atomos indivisible]
atom bomb n. bomb in which energy is released by nuclear fission.
atomic adj. 1 of or using atomic energy or atomic bombs. 2 of atoms.
atomic bomb n. = *atom bomb.
atomic energy n. nuclear energy.
atomic mass n. mass of an atom measured in atomic mass units.
atomic mass unit n. unit of mass used to express atomic and molecular weights, equal to one-twelfth of the mass of an atom of carbon-12.
atomic number n. number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.
atomic theory n. theory that all matter consists of atoms.
atomic weight n. = *relative atomic mass.
atomize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) reduce to atoms or fine particles.
atomizer n. (also -iser) = *aerosol 1.
atonal adj. Mus. not written in any key or mode. atonality n.
atone v. (-ning) (usu. foll. by for) make amends (for a wrong). [from *atonement]
atonement n. 1 atoning. 2 (the Atonement) expiation by Christ of mankind's sins. [at one + *-ment]
atrium n. (pl. -s or atria) 1 a central court of an ancient Roman house. b (usu. skylit) central court rising through several storeys. 2 each of the two upper cavities of the heart. [Latin]
atrocious adj. 1 very bad or unpleasant (atrocious manners). 2 wicked (atrocious cruelty). atrociously adv. [Latin atrox cruel]
atrocity n. (pl. -ies) 1 wicked or cruel act. 2 extreme wickedness. [Latin: related to *atrocious]
atrophy -n. wasting away, esp. through disuse; emaciation. -v. (-ies, -ied) suffer atrophy or cause atrophy in. [Greek a- without, trophe food]
atropine n. poisonous alkaloid in deadly nightshade. [Greek Atropos, the Fate who cut the thread of life]
attach v. 1 fasten, affix, join. 2 (in passive; foll. by to) be very fond of. 3 attribute or be attributable; assign (can't attach a name to it; no blame attaches to us). 4 accompany; form part of (no conditions are attached). 5 refl. (usu. foll. by to) take part in; join (attached himself to the team). 6 seize by legal authority. [French from Germanic]
attaché n. specialist member of an ambassador's staff.
attaché case n. small rectangular document case.
attachment n. 1 thing attached, esp. for a purpose. 2 affection, devotion. 3 attaching or being attached. 4 legal seizure. 5 temporary position in an organization.
attack -v. 1 try to hurt or defeat using force. 2 criticize adversely. 3 act harmfully upon (rust attacks metal). 4 vigorously apply oneself to. 5 Sport try to gain ground or score (against). -n. 1 act of attacking. 2 offensive operation. 3 sudden onset of an illness. attacker n. [French from Italian]
attain v. 1 reach, gain, accomplish (a goal etc.). 2 (foll. by to) arrive at by effort or development. [Latin attingo reach]
attainment n. 1 (often in pl.) accomplishment or achievement. 2 attaining.
attar n. perfume made from rose-petals. [Persian]
attempt -v. 1 (often foll. by to + infin.) try to do or achieve (attempted to explain). 2 try to conquer (a mountain etc.). -n. (often foll. by at, on, or to + infin.) attempting; endeavour (attempt at winning; attempt on his life). [Latin tempto try]
attend v. 1 a be present (at) (attended the meeting). b go regularly to (attends church). 2 escort. 3 a (often foll. by to) turn or apply one's mind. b (foll. by to) deal with (attend to the matter). [Latin tendo stretch]
attendance n. 1 attending or being present. 2 number present (high attendance).
attendant -n. person escorting or providing a service (cloakroom attendant). -adj. 1 accompanying (attendant costs). 2 (often foll. by on) waiting (attendant on the queen).
attendee n. person who attends (a meeting etc.).
attention n. 1 act or faculty of applying one's mind; notice (attention wandered; attract his attention). 2 consideration, care. 3 (in pl.) a courtesies. b sexual advances. 4 erect esp. military attitude of readiness.
attentive adj. 1 concentrating; paying attention. 2 assiduously polite. attentively adv. attentiveness n.
attenuate v. (-ting) 1 make thin. 2 reduce in force, value, etc. attenuation n. [Latin tenuis thin]
attest v. 1 certify the validity of. 2 (foll. by to) bear witness to. attestation n. [Latin testis witness]
Attic -adj. of ancient Athens or Attica, or the form of Greek used there. -n. Greek as used by the ancient Athenians. [Greek Attikos]
attic n. space or room at the top of a house, usu. under the roof. [from *Attic, with ref. to an architectural feature]
attire formal -n. clothes, esp. formal. -v. (-ring) (usu. as attired adj.) dress, esp. formally. [French à tire in order]
attitude n. 1 opinion or way of thinking; behaviour reflecting this (don't like his attitude). 2 bodily posture; pose. 3 position of an aircraft etc. relative to given points. [Latin aptus fitted]
attitudinize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) adopt (esp. affected) attitudes; pose.
attorney n. (pl. -s) 1 lawyer etc. appointed to act for another in business or legal matters. 2 US qualified lawyer. [French atorner assign]
Attorney-General n. (pl. Attorneys-General) chief legal officer in some countries.
attract v. 1 (also absol.) (of a magnet etc.) draw to itself or oneself. 2 arouse interest or admiration in. [Latin traho draw]
attraction n. 1 a attracting or being attracted. b attractive quality (can't see the attraction in it). c person or thing that attracts. 2 Physics tendency of bodies to attract each other.
attractive adj. 1 attracting (esp. interest or admiration). 2 aesthetically pleasing; good-looking. attractively adv.
attribute -v. (-ting) (usu. foll. by to) 1 regard as belonging to, written or said by, etc. (a poem attributed to Milton). 2 ascribe to (a cause) (delays attributed to snow). -n. 1 esp. characteristic quality ascribed to a person or thing. 2 object symbolizing or appropriate to a person, office, or status. attributable adj. attribution n. [Latin tribuo allot]
attributive adj. Gram. (of an adjective or noun) preceding the word described, as old in the old dog.
attrition n. 1 gradual wearing down (war of attrition). 2 abrasion, friction. [Latin tero trit- rub]
attune v. (-ning) 1 (usu. foll. by to) adjust to a situation etc. 2 Mus. tune. [related to *tune]
atypical adj. not typical. atypically adv.
Au symb. gold. [Latin aurum]
aubergine n. plant with white or purple egg-shaped fruit used as a vegetable; eggplant. [French, ultimately from Sanskrit]
aubrietia n. (also aubretia) dwarf perennial rock-plant with purple or pink flowers. [Aubriet, name of an artist]
auburn adj. reddish-brown (usu. of hair). [originally = yellowish white: from Latin albus white]
auction -n. sale in which articles are sold to the highest bidder. -v. sell by auction. [Latin augeo auct- increase]
auction bridge n. game in which players bid for the right to name trumps.
auctioneer n. person who conducts auctions, esp. for a living.
audacious adj. 1 daring, bold. 2 impudent. audacity n. [Latin audax bold]
audible adj. able to be heard. audibility n. audibly adv. [Latin audio hear]
audience n. 1 a assembled listeners or spectators, esp. at a play, concert, etc. b people addressed by a film, book, etc. 2 formal interview with a superior. [Latin: related to *audible]
audio n. (usu. attrib.) sound or its reproduction. [Latin audio hear]
audio- comb. form hearing or sound.
audio frequency n. frequency able to be perceived by the human ear.
audiotape n. (also audio tape) 1 a magnetic tape for recording sound. b a length of this. 2 a sound recording on tape.
audio typist n. person who types from a tape-recording.
audiovisual adj. (of teaching methods etc.) using both sight and sound.
audit -n. official scrutiny of accounts. -v. (-t-) conduct an audit of.
audition -n. test of a performer's suitability or ability. -v. assess or be assessed at an audition. [Latin audio hear]
auditor n. person who audits accounts. [French from Latin]
auditorium n. (pl. -s) part of a theatre etc. for the audience. [Latin]
auditory adj. of hearing.
au fait predic. adj. (usu. foll. by with) conversant (au fait with the rules). [French]
Aug. abbr. August.
Augean adj. filthy. [Greek Augeas, a mythical king: his filthy stables were cleaned by Hercules diverting a river through them]
auger n. tool with a screw point for boring in wood. [Old English]
aught n. archaic anything. [Old English]
augment v. make or become greater; increase. augmentation n. [Latin: related to *auction]
augmentative adj. augmenting.
au gratin adj. cooked with a crust of breadcrumbs or melted cheese. [French]
augur -v. portend, serve as an omen (augur well or ill). -n. hist. Roman religious official interpreting natural phenomena in order to pronounce on proposed actions. [Latin]
augury n. (pl. -ies) 1 omen. 2 interpretation of omens.
August n. eighth month of the year. [Latin Augustus, first Roman emperor]
august adj. venerable, imposing. [Latin]
Augustan adj. 1 of the reign of Augustus, esp. as a flourishing literary period. 2 (of literature) refined and classical in style. [Latin: see *August]
auk n. black and white sea bird with short wings, e.g. the guillemot, puffin, etc. [Old Norse]
auld lang syne n. times long past. [Scots, = old long since]
aunt n. 1 sister of one's father or mother. 2 uncle's wife. 3 colloq. (form of address by a child to) parent's female friend. [Latin amita]
auntie n. (also aunty) (pl. -ies) colloq. = *aunt.
Aunt Sally n. 1 game in which sticks or balls are thrown at a wooden dummy. 2 target of general abuse.
au pair n. young foreigner, esp. a woman, helping with housework etc. in exchange for board and lodging. [French]
aura n. (pl. -s) 1 distinctive atmosphere. 2 subtle emanation. [Greek, = breeze]
aural adj. of the ear or hearing. aurally adv. [Latin auris ear]
aureate adj. literary 1 golden. 2 resplendent. [Latin aurum gold]
aureole n. (also aureola) 1 halo or circle of light, esp. in a religious painting. 2 corona round the sun or moon. [Latin, = golden (crown)]
au revoir int. & n. goodbye (until we meet again). [French]
auricle n. 1 each atrium of the heart. 2 external ear of animals. auricular adj. [related to *auricula]
auricula n. (pl. -s) primula with ear-shaped leaves. [Latin, diminutive of auris ear]
auriferous adj. yielding gold. [Latin aurifer from aurum gold]
aurochs n. (pl. same) extinct wild ox. [German]
aurora n. (pl. -s or aurorae) luminous phenomenon, usu. of streamers of light in the night sky above the northern (aurora borealis) or southern (aurora australis) magnetic pole. [Latin, = dawn, goddess of dawn]
auscultation n. listening, esp. to sounds from the heart, lungs, etc., for purposes of diagnosis. [Latin ausculto listen]
auspice n. 1 (in pl.) patronage (esp. under the auspices of). 2 omen, premonition. [originally 'observation of bird-flight': Latin avis bird]
auspicious adj. promising well; favourable.
Aussie slang -n. 1 Australian. 2 Australia. -adj. Australian. [abbreviation]
austere adj. (-terer, -terest) 1 severely simple. 2 morally strict. 3 stern, grim. [Greek austeros]
austerity n. (pl. -ies) being austere; hardship.
austral adj. 1 southern. 2 (Austral) of Australia or Australasia. [Latin auster south]
Australasian adj. of Australasia, including Australia and the islands of the SW Pacific.
Australian -n. 1 native or national of Australia. 2 person of Australian descent. -adj. of Australia.
autarchy n. absolute rule; despotism. [Greek autos self, arkhe rule]
autarky n. self-sufficiency, esp. economic. [Greek autos self, arkeo suffice]
authentic adj. 1 of undisputed origin; genuine. 2 reliable, trustworthy. authentically adv. authenticity n. [Greek authentikos]
authenticate v. (-ting) establish as true, genuine, or valid. authentication n.
author n. (fem. authoress) 1 writer, esp. of books. 2 originator of an idea, event, etc. [Latin auctor]
authoritarian -adj. favouring or enforcing strict obedience to authority. -n. authoritarian person.
authoritative adj. 1 reliable, esp. having authority. 2 official.
authority n. (pl. -ies) 1 a power or right to enforce obedience. b (often foll. by for, or to + infin.) delegated power. 2 (esp. in pl.) body having authority. 3 influence based on recognized knowledge or expertise. 4 expert. [Latin auctoritas]
authorize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 officially approve, sanction. 2 (foll. by to + infin.) give authority to (a person to do a thing). authorization n.
Authorized Version n. English translation of the Bible made in 1611.
authorship n. 1 origin of a book etc. 2 profession of an author.
autism n. condition characterized by self-absorption and social withdrawal. autistic adj. [related to *auto-]
auto n. (pl. -s) US colloq. car. [abbreviation of *automobile]
auto- comb. form 1 self. 2 one's own. 3 of or by oneself or itself. [Greek autos]
autobahn n. (pl. -s) German, Austrian, or Swiss motorway. [German]
autobiography n. (pl. -ies) 1 written account of one's own life. 2 this as a literary genre. autobiographer n. autobiographical adj.
autoclave n. sterilizer using high-pressure steam. [Latin clavus nail or clavis key]
autocracy n. (pl. -ies) 1 rule by an autocrat. 2 dictatorship. [Greek kratos power]
autocrat n. 1 absolute ruler. 2 dictatorial person. autocratic adj. autocratically adv.
autocross n. motor racing across country or on unmade roads.
Autocue n. propr. screen etc. from which a speaker reads a television script.
auto-da-fé n. (pl. autos-da-fé) 1 hist. ceremonial judgement of heretics by the Spanish Inquisition. 2 public burning of heretics. [Portuguese, = act of the faith]
autograph -n. signature, esp. that of a celebrity. -v. sign or write on in one's own hand. [Greek grapho write]
autoimmune adj. (of a disease) caused by antibodies produced against substances naturally present in the body.
automat n. US 1 slot-machine. 2 cafeteria dispensing food and drink from slot-machines. [French: related to *automaton]
automate v. (-ting) convert to or operate by automation.
automatic -adj. 1 working by itself, without direct human intervention. 2 a done spontaneously (automatic reaction). b following inevitably (automatic penalty). 3 (of a firearm) able to be loaded and fired continuously. 4 (of a vehicle or its transmission) using gears that change automatically. -n. 1 automatic machine, firearm, or tool. 2 vehicle with automatic transmission. automatically adv. [related to *automaton]
automatic pilot n. device for keeping an aircraft or ship on a set course.
automation n. 1 use of automatic equipment in place of manual labour. 2 production of goods etc. by this.
automatism n. 1 involuntary action. 2 unthinking routine. [French: related to *automaton]
automaton n. (pl. -mata or -s) 1 machine controlled automatically; robot. 2 person acting like a robot. [Greek, = acting of itself]
automobile n. US motor car. [French]
automotive adj. of motor vehicles.
autonomous adj. 1 having self-government. 2 acting or free to act independently. [Greek nomos law]
autonomy n. 1 self-government. 2 personal freedom.
autopilot n. = *automatic pilot.
autopsy n. (pl. -ies) post-mortem. [Greek autoptes eye-witness]
autoroute n. French motorway. [French]
autostrada n. (pl. -s or -strade) Italian motorway. [Italian]
auto-suggestion n. hypnotic or subconscious suggestion made to oneself.
autumn n. 1 (often attrib.) season between summer and winter. 2 time of incipient decline. autumnal adj. [Latin autumnus]
autumn equinox n. (also autumnal equinox) equinox about 22 Sept.
auxiliary -adj. 1 subsidiary, additional. 2 giving help. -n. (pl. -ies) 1 auxiliary person or thing. 2 (in pl.) foreign or allied troops in the service of a nation at war. 3 verb used to form tenses or moods of other verbs (e.g. have in I have seen). [Latin auxilium help]
auxin n. plant hormone that regulates growth.
AV abbr. Authorized Version.
avail -v. 1 help; be of use. 2 refl. (foll. by of) make use of, profit by. -n. use, profit (of no avail). [Latin valeo be strong]
available adj. 1 at one's disposal, obtainable. 2 a (of a person) free, not committed. b able to be contacted. availability n.
avalanche n. 1 rapidly sliding mass of snow and ice on a mountain. 2 sudden abundance (avalanche of work). [French]
avant-garde -n. pioneers or (esp. artistic) innovators. -adj. new; pioneering. [French, = vanguard]
avarice n. extreme greed for wealth. avaricious adj. [Latin avarus greedy]
avatar n. (in Hindu mythology) descent of a deity etc. to earth in bodily form. [Sanskrit, = descent]
Ave n. (in full Ave Maria) prayer to the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:28). [Latin]
Ave. abbr. Avenue.
avenge v. (-ging) 1 inflict retribution on behalf of. 2 take vengeance for (an injury). be avenged avenge oneself. [Latin vindico]
avenue n. 1 a broad esp. tree-lined road or street. b tree-lined path etc. 2 approach (explored every avenue). [French avenir come to]
aver v. (-rr-) formal assert, affirm. averment n. [Latin verus true]
average -n. 1 usual amount, extent, or rate. 2 amount obtained by adding two or more numbers and dividing by how many there are. 3 (with ref. to speed etc.) ratio obtained by subtracting the inital from the final value of each element of the ratio (average of 50 miles per hour). 4 Law damage to or loss of a ship or cargo. -adj. 1 a usual, ordinary. b mediocre. 2 constituting an average (the average age is 72). -v. (-ging) 1 amount on average to. 2 do on average. 3 estimate the average of. average out (at) result in an average (of). law of averages principle that if one of two extremes occurs the other will also. on (or on an) average as an average rate or estimate. [Arabic, = damaged goods]
averse predic. adj. (usu. foll. by to) opposed, disinclined. [Latin verto vers- turn]
aversion n. 1 (usu. foll. by to, for) dislike or unwillingness. 2 object of this.
avert v. (often foll. by from) 1 turn away (one's eyes or thoughts). 2 prevent or ward off (esp. danger).
Avesta n. (usu. prec. by the) sacred writings of Zoroastrianism (cf. *Zend). [Persian]
aviary n. (pl. -ies) large cage or building for keeping birds. [Latin avis bird]
aviation n. science or practice of flying aircraft. [Latin: related to *aviary]
aviator n. person who flies aircraft.
avid adj. eager, greedy. avidity n. avidly adv. [Latin aveo crave]
avionics n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) electronics as applied to aviation. [from *aviation, *electronics]
avocado n. (pl. -s) 1 (in full avocado pear) dark green edible pear-shaped fruit with yellowish-green creamy flesh. 2 tree bearing it. [Spanish from Aztec]
avocet n. long-legged wading bird with an upward-curved bill. [French from Italian]
avoid v. 1 keep away or refrain from. 2 escape; evade. 3 Law quash, annul. avoidable adj. avoidance n. [French]
avoirdupois n. (in full avoirdupois weight) system of weights based on a pound of 16 ounces or 7,000 grains. [French, = goods of weight]
avow v. formal declare, confess. avowal n. avowedly adv. [Latin voco call]
avuncular adj. like or of an uncle, esp. in manner. [Latin avunculus uncle]
await v. 1 wait for. 2 be in store for. [French: related to *wait]
awake -v. (-king; past awoke; past part. awoken) 1 cease to sleep or arouse from sleep. 2 (often foll. by to) become or make alert, aware, or active. -predic. adj. 1 not asleep. 2 (often foll. by to) alert, aware. [Old English: related to *a2]
awaken v. = *awake v.
Usage Awake and awaken are interchangeable but awaken is much rarer than awake as an intransitive verb.
award -v. give or order to be given as a payment or prize. -n. 1 thing or amount awarded. 2 judicial decision. [French]
aware predic. adj. 1 (often foll. by of or that) conscious; having knowledge. 2 well-informed. awareness n. [Old English]
Usage Aware is also found used attributively in sense 2, as in 'a very aware person', but this should be avoided in formal contexts.
awash predic. adj. 1 level with the surface of, and just covered by, water. 2 (foll. by with) overflowing, abounding.
away -adv. 1 to or at a distance from the place, person, or thing in question (go, give, look, away; 5 miles away). 2 into non-existence (explain, fade, away). 3 constantly, persistently (work away). 4 without delay (ask away). -attrib. adj. Sport not played on one's own ground (away match). -n. Sport away match or win. [Old English: related to *a2, *way]
awe -n. reverential fear or wonder. -v. (awing) inspire with awe. [Old Norse]
aweigh predic. adj. (of an anchor) clear of the bottom.
awe-inspiring adj. awesome; magnificent.
awesome adj. inspiring awe; dreaded.
awful adj. 1 colloq. very bad or unpleasant (has awful writing; awful weather). 2 (attrib.) as an intensifier (awful lot of money). 3 poet. inspiring awe.
awfully adv. 1 badly; unpleasantly (played awfully). 2 colloq. very (awfully pleased).
awhile adv. for a short time. [a while]
awkward adj. 1 difficult to use or deal with. 2 clumsy, ungainly. 3 a embarrassed. b embarrassing. [obsolete awk perverse]
awl n. small tool for piercing holes, esp. in leather. [Old English]
awn n. bristly head of a sheath of barley and other grasses. [Old Norse]
awning n. sheet of canvas etc. stretched on a frame as a shelter against the sun or rain. [origin uncertain]
awoke past of *awake.
awoken past part. of *awake.
AWOL abbr. colloq. absent without leave.
awry -adv. 1 crookedly, askew. 2 amiss, wrong. -predic. adj. crooked; unsound.
ax (Brit. axe) -n. 1 chopping-tool with a handle and heavy blade. 2 (the ax) dismissal (of employees); abandonment of a project etc. -v. (axing) cut (esp. costs or staff) drastically; abandon (a project). an ax to grind private ends to serve. [Old English]
axe (US ax) -n. 1 chopping-tool with a handle and heavy blade. 2 (the axe) dismissal (of employees); abandonment of a project etc. -v. (axing) cut (esp. costs or staff) drastically; abandon (a project). an axe to grind private ends to serve. [Old English]
axial adj. of, forming, or placed round an axis.
axil n. upper angle between a leaf and stem. [Latin axilla armpit]
axiom n. 1 established or accepted principle. 2 self-evident truth. axiomatic adj. [Greek axios worthy]
axis n. (pl. axes) 1 a imaginary line about which a body rotates. b line which divides a regular figure symmetrically. 2 fixed reference line for the measurement of coordinates etc. 3 (the Axis) alliance of Germany, Italy, and later Japan, in the war of 1939-45. [Latin, = axle]
axle n. spindle on which a wheel is fixed or turns. [Old Norse]
axolotl n. newtlike salamander, which in natural conditions retains its larval form of life. [Nahuatl, = water-servant]
ayatollah n. Shiite religious leader in Iran. [Persian from Arabic, = token of God]
aye -adv. archaic or dial. yes. -n. affirmative answer or vote. [probably from I, expressing assent]
azalea n. a kind of rhododendron. [Greek azaleos dry]
azimuth n. angular distance from a north or south point of the horizon to the intersection with the horizon of a vertical circle passing through a given celestial body. azimuthal adj. [French from Arabic]
AZT abbr. drug intended for use against the Aids virus. [from the chemical name]
Aztec -n. 1 member of the native Mexican people overthrown by the Spanish in 1519. 2 language of this people. -adj. of the Aztecs or their language. [Nahuatl, = men of the north]
azure -n. 1 deep sky-blue colour. 2 poet. clear sky. -adj. deep sky-blue. [Arabic]
B
B1 n. (pl. Bs or B's) 1 (also b) second letter of the alphabet. 2 Mus. seventh note of the diatonic scale of C major. 3 second hypothetical person or example. 4 second highest category (of roads, academic marks, etc.). 5 (usu. b) Algebra second known quantity.
B2 symb. boron.
B3 abbr. (also B.) black (pencil-lead).
b. abbr. 1 born. 2 Cricket a bowled by. b bye.
BA abbr. 1 Bachelor of Arts. 2 British Airways.
Ba symb. barium.
baa -v. (baas, baaed or baa'd) bleat. -n. sheep's cry. [imitative]
babble -v. (-ling) 1 a talk, chatter, or say incoherently or excessively. b (of a stream etc.) murmur. 2 repeat or divulge foolishly. -n. 1 babbling. 2 murmur of voices, water, etc. [imitative]
babe n. 1 literary baby. 2 innocent or helpless person. 3 US slang young woman. [as *baby]
babel n. 1 confused noise, esp. of voices. 2 scene of confusion. [Hebrew, = Babylon (Gen. 11)]
baboon n. large long-nosed African and Arabian monkey. [French or medieval Latin]
baby -n. (pl. -ies) 1 very young child. 2 childish person. 3 youngest member of a family etc. 4 (often attrib.) a very young animal. b small specimen. 5 slang sweetheart. 6 one's special concern etc. -v. (-ies, -ied) treat like a baby; pamper. babyhood n. babyish adj. [imitative of child's ba ba]
baby boom n. colloq. temporary increase in the birthrate.
Baby Buggy n. propr. a kind of child's pushchair.
baby carriage n. US pram.
baby grand n. small grand piano.
Babygro n. (pl. -s) propr. stretchy all-in-one baby suit.
babysit v. (-tt-; past and past part. -sat) look after a child while its parents are out. babysitter n.
baccalaureate n. final secondary school examination in France and many international schools. [medieval Latin baccalaureus bachelor]
baccarat n. gambling card-game. [French]
bacchanal -n. 1 drunken revelry or reveller. 2 priest or follower of Bacchus. -adj. 1 of or like Bacchus. 2 drunkenly riotous. [Latin Bacchus from Greek, god of wine]
Bacchanalia n.pl. 1 Roman festival of Bacchus. 2 (bacchanalia) drunken revelry.
bacchant -n. (fem. bacchante) 1 priest or follower of Bacchus. 2 drunken reveller. -adj. 1 of or like Bacchus or his rites. 2 drunkenly riotous, roistering.
Bacchic adj. = *bacchanal adj.
baccy n. (pl. -ies) colloq. tobacco. [abbreviation]
bachelor n. 1 unmarried man. 2 person with a university first degree. bachelorhood n. [related to *baccalaureate]
bachelor girl n. independent young single woman.
bacillus n. (pl. bacilli) rod-shaped bacterium, esp. one causing disease. bacillary adj. [Latin, diminutive of baculus stick]
back -n. 1 a rear surface of the human body from shoulder to hip. b upper surface of an animal's body. c spine (broke his back). d keel of a ship. 2 backlike surface (back of the head, chair, shirt). 3 reverse or more distant part (back of the room; sat in the back; write it on the back). 4 defensive player in football etc. -adv. 1 to the rear (go back a bit; looked back). 2 in or into a previous state, place, or time (came back; put it back; back in June). 3 at a distance (stand back). 4 in return (pay back). 5 in check (hold him back). -v. 1 a give moral or financial support to. b bet on (a horse etc.). 2 (often foll. by up) move backwards. 3 a put or serve as a back, background, or support to. b Mus. accompany. 4 lie at the back of (beach backed by cliffs). 5 (of the wind) move anticlockwise. -adj. 1 situated to the rear; remote, subsidiary (back teeth). 2 past; not current (back pay; back issue). 3 reversed (back flow). back and forth to and fro. back down withdraw from confrontation. the back of beyond very remote place. back off 1 draw back, retreat. 2 = back down. back on to have its back adjoining (backs on to a field). back out (often foll. by of) withdraw from a commitment. back-pedal reverse one's action or opinion. back to back with backs adjacent and facing each other (stood back to back). back up 1 give (esp. moral) support to. 2 Computing make a backup of (data, a disk, etc.). get (or put) a person's back up annoy a person. get off a person's back stop troubling a person. turn one's back on abandon; ignore. backer n. (in sense 1 of v.). backless adj. [Old English]
backache n. ache in the back.
back-bencher n. MP not holding a senior office.
backbiting n. malicious talk. backbite v.
back-boiler n. boiler behind a domestic fire.
backbone n. 1 spine. 2 chief support. 3 firmness of character.
back-breaking adj. (esp. of manual work) extremely hard.
back-burner n. on the back-burner receiving little attention.
backchat n. colloq. verbal insolence.
backcloth n. 1 painted cloth at the back of a stage. 2 background to a scene or situation.
backcomb v. comb (the hair) towards the scalp to give it fullness.
back-crawl n. = *backstroke.
backdate v. (-ting) 1 make retrospectively valid. 2 put an earlier date to than the actual one.
back door n. secret or ingenious means.
backdrop n. = *backcloth.
backfire v. (-ring) 1 (of an engine or vehicle) ignite or explode too early in the cylinder or exhaust. 2 (of a plan etc.) rebound adversely on its originator.
back-formation n. 1 formation of a word from its seeming derivative (e.g. laze from lazy). 2 word so formed.
backgammon n. board-game with pieces moved according to throws of the dice. [from *back + obsolete form of *game1]
background n. 1 part of a scene or picture furthest from the observer. 2 (often attrib.) inconspicuous position (kept in the background; background music). 3 person's education, social circumstances, etc. 4 explanatory or contributory information or events.
backhand -attrib. adj. (of a stroke) made with the hand across one's body. -n. such a stroke.
backhanded adj. 1 made with the back of the hand. 2 indirect; ambiguous (backhanded compliment).
backhander n. 1 a backhand stroke. b backhanded blow. 2 slang bribe.
backing n. 1 a support, esp. financial or moral. b material used for a thing's back or support. 2 musical accompaniment, esp. to a pop singer.
backing track n. recorded musical accompaniment.
backlash n. 1 violent, usu. hostile, reaction. 2 sudden recoil in a mechanism.
backlist n. publisher's list of books still in print.
backlog n. arrears of work.
back number n. 1 out-of-date issue of a periodical. 2 slang out-of-date person or thing.
backpack -n. rucksack. -v. travel or hike with this. backpacker n.
back passage n. colloq. rectum.
backrest n. support for the back.
back room n. (often, with hyphen, attrib.) place where secret work is done.
back seat n. less prominent or important position.
back-seat driver n. person eager to advise without taking responsibility.
backside n. colloq. buttocks.
back slang n. slang using words spelt backwards (e.g. yob).
backslide v. (-ding; past -slid; past part. -slid or -slidden) return to bad habits etc.
backspace v. (-cing) move a typewriter carriage etc. back one or more spaces.
backspin n. backward spin making a ball bounce erratically.
backstage adv. & adj. behind the scenes.
backstairs -n.pl. rear or side stairs of a building. -attrib. adj. (also backstair) underhand; secret.
backstitch n. sewing with each stitch starting behind the end of the previous one.
back-stop n. 1 Cricket etc. a position directly behind the wicket-keeper. b fielder in this position. 2 last resort.
backstreet -n. side-street, alley. -attrib. adj. illicit; illegal (backstreet abortion).
backstroke n. swimming stroke done on the back.
back-to-back adj. (of houses) with a party wall at the rear.
back to front adj. 1 with back and front reversed. 2 in disorder.
back-to-nature attrib. adj. seeking a simpler way of life.
backtrack v. 1 retrace one's steps. 2 reverse one's policy or opinion.
backup n. (often attrib.) 1 support; reserve (back-up team). 2 Computing a making of spare copies of data for safety. b copy so made.
backward -adv. = *backwards. -adj. 1 towards the rear or starting-point (backward look). 2 reversed (backward roll). 3 slow to develop or progress. 4 hesitant, shy.
backwards adv. 1 away from one's front (lean backwards). 2 a with the back foremost (walk backwards). b in reverse of the usual way (count backwards). 3 a into a worse state. b into the past. c (of motion) back towards the starting-point (roll backwards). backwards and forwards to and fro. bend (or fall or lean) over backwards colloq. make every effort, esp. to be fair or helpful.
backwash n. 1 receding waves made by a ship etc. 2 repercussions.
backwater n. 1 peaceful, secluded, or dull place. 2 stagnant water fed from a stream.
backwoods n.pl. 1 remote uncleared forest land. 2 remote region. backwoodsman n.
backyard n. yard behind a house etc.
bacon n. cured meat from the back or sides of a pig. [French from Germanic]
bacteriology n. the study of bacteria.
bacterium n. (pl. -ria) unicellular micro-organism lacking an organized nucleus, esp. of a kind causing disease. bacterial adj. [Greek, = little stick]
Usage A common mistake is the use of the plural form bacteria as the singular. This should be avoided.
bad -adj. (worse, worst) 1 inadequate, defective (bad work, light). 2 unpleasant (bad weather). 3 harmful (is bad for you). 4 (of food) decayed. 5 colloq. ill, injured (feeling bad today; a bad leg). 6 colloq. regretful, guilty (feels bad about it). 7 serious, severe (a bad headache, mistake). 8 a morally unacceptable (bad man; bad language). b naughty. 9 not valid (a bad cheque). 10 (badder, baddest) esp. US slang excellent. -n. ill fortune; ruin. -adv. US colloq. badly. not (or not so) bad colloq. fairly good. too bad colloq. regrettable. [Old English]
bad blood n. ill feeling.
bad books see *book.
bad breath n. unpleasant-smelling breath.
bad debt n. debt that is not recoverable.
baddy n. (pl. -ies) colloq. villain in a story, film, etc.
bade see *bid.
bad egg see *egg1.
bad faith n. intent to deceive.
badge n. 1 small flat emblem worn to signify office, membership, etc., or as decoration. 2 thing that reveals a condition or quality. [origin unknown]
badger -n. nocturnal burrowing mammal with a black and white striped head. -v. pester, harass. [origin uncertain]
badinage n. playful ridicule. [French]
bad lot n. person of bad character.
badly adv. (worse, worst) 1 in a bad manner. 2 colloq. very much (wants it badly). 3 severely (badly defeated).
badminton n. game with rackets and a shuttlecock. [Badminton in S. England]
bad-mouth v. esp. US slang abuse verbally, put down.
bad news n. colloq. unpleasant or troublesome person or thing.
bad-tempered adj. irritable.
baffle -v. (-ling) 1 perplex. 2 frustrate, hinder. -n. device that checks flow esp. of fluid or sound waves. bafflement n. [origin uncertain]
BAFTA abbr. British Association of Film and Television Arts.
bag -n. 1 soft open-topped receptacle. 2 a piece of luggage. b woman's handbag. 3 (in pl.; usu. foll. by of) colloq. large amount (bags of time). 4 slang derog. woman. 5 animal's sac. 6 amount of game shot by one person. 7 (usu. in pl.) baggy skin under the eyes. 8 slang particular interest (folk music is not my bag). -v. (-gg-) 1 colloq. a secure (bagged the best seat). b (often in phr. bags I) colloq. claim as being the first (bags I go next). 2 put in a bag. 3 (cause to) hang loosely; bulge. in the bag colloq. achieved, secured. bagful n. (pl. -s). [origin unknown]
bagatelle n. 1 game in which small balls are struck into holes on a board. 2 mere trifle. 3 short piece of esp. piano music. [French from Italian]
bagel n. ring-shaped bread roll. [Yiddish]
baggage n. 1 luggage. 2 portable army equipment. 3 joc. or derog. girl or woman. 4 mental encumbrances. [French]
baggy adj. (-ier, -iest) hanging loosely. baggily adv. bagginess n.
bagpipe n. (usu. in pl.) musical instrument consisting of a windbag connected to reeded pipes.
baguette n. long thin French loaf. [French]
bah int. expressing contempt or disbelief. [French]
Baha'i n. (pl. -s) member of a monotheistic religion emphasizing religious unity and world peace. [Persian bahá splendour]
bail1 -n. 1 money etc. pledged against the temporary release of an untried prisoner. 2 person(s) giving this. -v. (usu. foll. by out) 1 release or secure the release of (a prisoner) on payment of bail. 2 release from a difficulty; rescue. on bail released after payment of bail. [Latin bajulus carrier]
bail2 n. 1 Cricket either of two crosspieces bridging the stumps. 2 bar holding the paper against a typewriter platen. 3 bar separating horses in an open stable. [French]
bail3 v. (also bale) 1 (usu. foll. by out) scoop water out of (a boat etc.). 2 scoop (water etc.) out. bail out var. of bale out 1 (see *bale1). [French]
bailey n. (pl. -s) 1 outer wall of a castle. 2 court enclosed by it. [French: related to *bail2]
Bailey bridge n. prefabricated military bridge for rapid assembly. [Sir D. Bailey, name of its designer]
bailiff n. 1 sheriff's officer who executes writs and carries out distraints. 2 landlord's agent or steward. [French: related to *bail1]
bailiwick n. 1 Law district of a bailiff. 2 joc. person's particular interest. [as *bailiff, obsolete wick district]
bain-marie n. (pl. bains-marie pronunc. same) pan of hot water holding a pan containing sauce etc. for slow heating. [French, translation of medieval Latin balneum Mariae bath of Maria (a supposed alchemist)]
bairn n. Scot. & N.Engl. child. [Old English: related to *bear1]
bait -n. 1 food used to entice prey. 2 allurement. -v. 1 harass, torment, or annoy (a person or chained animal). 2 put bait on (a hook, trap, etc.). [Old Norse]
baize n. usu. green woollen felted material, used for coverings. [French pl. baies chestnut-coloured]
bake v. (-king) 1 cook or become cooked by dry heat, esp. in an oven. 2 colloq. (usu. as be baking) (of weather, a person, etc.) be very hot. 3 harden by heat. [Old English]
baked beans n.pl. baked haricot beans, usu. tinned in tomato sauce.
Bakelite n. propr. plastic made from formaldehyde and phenol, used formerly for buttons, plates, etc. [German from Baekeland, name of its inventor]
baker n. person who bakes and sells bread, cakes, etc., esp. for a living.
Baker day n. colloq. day set aside for in-service training of teachers. [Baker, name of the Education Secretary responsible for introducing them]
baker's dozen n. thirteen.
bakery n. (pl. -ies) place where bread and cakes are made or sold.
Bakewell tart n. open pastry case lined with jam and filled with almond paste. [Bakewell in Derbyshire]
baking-powder n. mixture of sodium bicarbonate, cream of tartar, etc., as a raising agent.
baking-soda n. sodium bicarbonate.
baklava n. rich sweetmeat of flaky pastry, honey, and nuts. [Turkish]
baksheesh n. gratuity, tip. [Persian]
Balaclava n. (in full Balaclava helmet) usu. woollen covering for the whole head and neck, except for the face. [Balaclava in the Crimea, the site of a battle in 1854]
balalaika n. guitar-like stringed instrument with a triangular body. [Russian]
balance -n. 1 a even distribution of weight or amount. b stability of body or mind. 2 apparatus for weighing, esp. one with a central pivot, beam, and two scales. 3 a counteracting weight or force. b (in full balance-wheel) regulating device in a clock etc. 4 decisive weight or amount (balance of opinion). 5 a agreement or difference between credits and debits in an account. b amount still owing or outstanding (will pay the balance). c amount left over. 6 a Art harmony and proportion. b Mus. relative volume of sources of sound. 7 (the Balance) zodiacal sign or constellation Libra. -v. (-cing) 1 bring into, keep, or be in equilibrium (balanced a book on her head; balanced on one leg). 2 (often foll. by with, against) offset or compare (one thing) with another (balance the pros and cons). 3 counteract, equal, or neutralize the weight or importance of. 4 (usu. as balanced adj.) make well-proportioned and harmonious (balanced diet; balanced opinion). 5 a compare and esp. equalize the debits and credits of (an account). b (of an account) have credits and debits equal. in the balance uncertain; at a critical stage. on balance all things considered. [Latin bilanx scales]
balance of payments n. difference in value between payments into and out of a country.
balance of power n. 1 situation of roughly equal power among the chief States of the world. 2 power held by a small group when larger groups are of equal strength.
balance of trade n. difference in value between imports and exports.
balance sheet n. statement giving the balance of an account.
balcony n. (pl. -ies) 1 usu. balustraded platform on the outside of a building with access from an upper floor. 2 upper tier of seats in a theatre etc. balconied adj. [Italian]
bald adj. 1 lacking some or all hair on the scalp. 2 lacking the usual hair, feathers, leaves, etc. 3 colloq. with a worn surface (bald tyre). 4 plain, direct (bald statement, style). balding adj. (in senses 1-3). baldly adv. (in sense 4). baldness n. [Old English]
balderdash n. nonsense. [origin unknown]
bale1 -n. tightly bound bundle of merchandise or hay. -v. (-ling) make up into bales. bale out 1 (also bail out) (of an airman) make an emergency parachute descent. 2 var. of *bail1 v. 2. [Dutch: related to *ball1]
bale2 var. of *bail3.
baleen n. whalebone. [Latin balaena whale]
baleful adj. 1 menacing in look, manner, etc. 2 malignant, destructive. balefully adv. [archaic bale evil]
balk var. of *baulk.
Balkan adj. 1 of the region of SE Europe bounded by the Adriatic, Aegean, and Black Sea. 2 of its peoples or countries. [Turkish]
ball1 -n. 1 sphere, esp. for use in a game. 2 a ball-shaped object; material in the shape of a ball (ball of snow, wool). b rounded part of the body (ball of the foot). 3 cannon-ball. 4 single delivery or pass of a ball in cricket, baseball, football, etc. 5 (in pl.) coarse slang a testicles. b (usu. as int.) nonsense. c = *balls-up. d courage, 'guts'. -v. form into a ball. balls up coarse slang bungle; make a mess of. on the ball colloq. alert. [Old Norse]
ball2 n. 1 formal social gathering for dancing. 2 slang enjoyable time (esp. have a ball). [Greek ballo throw]
ballad n. 1 poem or song narrating a popular story. 2 slow sentimental song. [Provençal: related to *ball2]
balladry n. ballad poetry.
ball-and-socket joint n. joint in which a rounded end lies in a concave socket.
ballast -n. 1 heavy material stabilizing a ship, the car of a balloon, etc. 2 coarse stone etc. as the bed of a railway track or road. 3 mixture of coarse and fine aggregate for making concrete. -v. provide with ballast. [Low German or Scandinavian]
ball-bearing n. 1 bearing in which the two halves are separated by a ring of small balls. 2 one of these balls.
ballboy n. (fem. ballgirl) (in tennis) boy or girl who retrieves balls.
ballcock n. floating ball on a hinged arm controlling the water level in a cistern.
ballerina n. female ballet-dancer. [Italian: related to *ball2]
ballet n. 1 dramatic or representational style of dancing to music. 2 particular piece or performance of ballet. balletic adj. [French: related to *ball2]
ballet-dancer n. dancer of ballet.
ball game n. 1 a game played with a ball. b US baseball game. 2 esp. US colloq. affair; matter (a whole new ball game).
ballista n. (pl. -stae) (in ancient warfare) catapult for hurling large stones etc. [Latin from Greek ballo throw]
ballistic adj. of projectiles.
ballistic missile n. missile that is powered and guided but falls by gravity.
ballistics n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) science of projectiles and firearms.
ballocking var. of *bollocking.
ballocks var. of *bollocks.
balloon -n. 1 small inflatable rubber toy or decoration. 2 large usu. round inflatable flying bag, often carrying a basket for passengers. 3 colloq. balloon shape enclosing dialogue etc. in a comic strip or cartoon. -v. 1 (cause to) swell out like a balloon. 2 travel by balloon. balloonist n. [French or Italian, = large ball]
ballot -n. 1 occasion or system of voting, in writing and usu. secret. 2 total of such votes. 3 paper etc. used in voting. -v. (-t-) 1 (usu. foll. by for) a hold a ballot; give a vote. b draw lots for precedence etc. 2 take a ballot of (balloted the members). [Italian ballotta: related to *balloon]
ballot-box n. sealed box for completed ballot-papers.
ballot-paper n. = *ballot n. 3.
ballpark n. US 1 baseball ground. 2 colloq. sphere of activity, etc. 3 (attrib.) colloq. approximate. in the right ballpark colloq. approximately correct.
ball-point n. (in full ball-point pen) pen with a tiny ball as its writing point.
ballroom n. large room for dancing.
ballroom dancing n. formal social dancing.
balls-up n. coarse slang bungle, mess.
bally adj. & adv. slang mild form of bloody (see *bloody adj. 3). [alteration of *bloody]
ballyhoo n. 1 loud noise or fuss. 2 noisy publicity. [origin unknown]
balm n. 1 aromatic ointment. 2 fragrant oil or resin exuded from certain trees and plants. 3 thing that heals or soothes. 4 aromatic herb. [Latin: related to *balsam]
balmy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 mild and fragrant; soothing. 2 slang = *barmy. balmily adv. balminess n.
baloney var. of *boloney.
balsa n. 1 (in full balsa-wood) tough lightweight wood used for making models etc. 2 tropical American tree yielding it. [Spanish, = raft]
balsam n. 1 resin exuded from various trees and shrubs. 2 ointment, esp. containing oil or turpentine. 3 tree or shrub yielding balsam. 4 any of several flowering plants. balsamic adj. [Latin balsamum]
baluster n. short post or pillar supporting a rail. [Greek balaustion wild-pomegranate flower]
Usage Baluster is often confused with banister. A baluster is usually part of a balustrade whereas a banister supports a stair handrail.
balustrade n. railing supported by balusters, esp. on a balcony. balustraded adj.
bamboo n. 1 tropical giant woody grass. 2 its stem, used for canes, furniture, etc. [Dutch from Malay]
bamboo shoot n. young shoot of bamboo, eaten as a vegetable.
bamboozle v. (-ling) colloq. cheat; mystify. bamboozlement n. [origin unknown]
ban -v. (-nn-) forbid, prohibit, esp. formally. -n. formal prohibition (ban on smoking). [Old English, = summon]
banal adj. trite, commonplace. banality n. (pl. -ies). banally adv. [French, related to *ban: originally = compulsory, hence = common]
banana n. 1 long curved soft fruit with a yellow skin. 2 treelike plant bearing it. go bananas slang go mad. [Portuguese or Spanish, from an African name]
banana republic n. derog. small State, esp. in Central America, dependent on foreign capital.
band -n. 1 flat, thin strip or loop of paper, metal, cloth, etc., put round something esp. to hold or decorate it. 2 a strip of material on a garment. b stripe. 3 group of esp. non-classical musicians. 4 organized group of criminals etc. 5 range of frequencies, wavelengths, or values. 6 belt connecting wheels or pulleys. -v. 1 (usu. foll. by together) unite. 2 put a band on. 3 mark with stripes. [Old Norse (related to *bind) and French]
bandage -n. strip of material used to bind a wound etc. -v. (-ging) bind with a bandage. [French: related to *band]
bandanna n. large patterned handkerchief or neckerchief. [Portuguese from Hindi]
b. & b. abbr. bed and breakfast.
bandbox n. hatbox.
bandeau n. (pl. -x) narrow headband. [French]
banderole n. 1 long narrow flag with a cleft end. 2 ribbon-like inscribed scroll. [Italian: related to *banner]
bandicoot n. 1 catlike Australian marsupial. 2 (in full bandicoot rat) destructive rat in India. [Telugu, = pig-rat]
bandit n. robber or outlaw, esp. one attacking travellers etc. banditry n. [Italian]
bandmaster n. conductor of a band.
bandog n. fighting-dog bred for its strength and ferocity. [from *band, *dog]
bandolier n. (also bandoleer) shoulder belt with loops or pockets for cartridges. [Dutch or French]
band-saw n. mechanical saw with a blade formed by an endless toothed band.
bandsman n. player in a band.
bandstand n. outdoor platform for musicians.
bandwagon n. climb (or jump) on the bandwagon join a popular or successful cause etc.
bandwidth n. range of frequencies within a given band.
bandy1 adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of the legs) curved so as to be wide apart at the knees. 2 (also bandy-legged) having bandy legs. [perhaps from obsolete bandy curved stick]
bandy2 v. (-ies, -ied) 1 (often foll. by about) a pass (a story, rumour, etc.) to and fro. b discuss disparagingly (bandied her name about). 2 (often foll. by with) exchange (blows, insults, etc.). [perhaps from French]
bane n. 1 cause of ruin or trouble. 2 poet. ruin. 3 archaic (except in comb.) poison (ratsbane). baneful adj. [Old English]
bang -n. 1 loud short sound. 2 sharp blow. 3 coarse slang act of sexual intercourse. 4 US fringe cut straight across the forehead. -v. 1 strike or shut noisily (banged the door). 2 (cause to) make a bang. 3 coarse slang have sexual intercourse (with). -adv. 1 with a bang. 2 colloq. exactly (bang in the middle). bang on colloq. exactly right. go bang 1 shut noisily. 2 explode. 3 (as bang goes etc.) colloq. be suddenly lost (bang go my hopes). [imitative]
banger n. 1 slang sausage. 2 slang noisy old car. 3 firework designed to go bang.
bangle n. rigid bracelet or anklet. [Hindi bangri]
banian var. of *banyan.
banish v. 1 condemn to exile. 2 dismiss (esp. from one's mind). banishment n. [Germanic: related to *ban]
banister n. (also bannister) (usu. in pl.) uprights and handrail beside a staircase. [corruption of *baluster]
Usage See note at baluster.
banjo n. (pl. -s or -es) guitar-like stringed instrument with a circular body. banjoist n. [US southern corruption of bandore from Greek pandoura lute]
bank1 -n. 1 sloping ground beside a river. 2 raised area, esp. in the sea; slope. 3 mass of cloud, fog, snow, etc. -v. 1 (often foll. by up) heap or rise into banks. 2 pack (a fire) tightly for slow burning. 3 a (of a vehicle, aircraft, etc.) round a curve with one side higher than the other. b cause to do this. [Old Norse: related to *bench]
bank2 -n. 1 establishment for depositing, withdrawing, and borrowing money. 2 kitty in some gambling games. 3 storage place (blood bank). -v. 1 deposit (money etc.) in a bank. 2 (often foll. by at, with) keep money (at a bank). bank on colloq. rely on (I'm banking on you). [French banque or Italian banca: related to *bank1]
bank3 n. row of similar objects, e.g. lights, switches, oars. [French banc from Germanic: related to *bank1]
bankable adj. certain to bring profit.
bank card n. (also banker's card) = *cheque card.
banker n. 1 owner or manager of a bank. 2 keeper of the bank in some gambling games.
bank holiday n. public holiday, when banks are officially closed.
banking n. business of running a bank.
banknote n. piece of paper money.
bankrupt -adj. 1 legally declared insolvent. 2 (often foll. by of) exhausted or drained (of emotion etc.). -n. insolvent person, esp. one whose assets are used to repay creditors. -v. make bankrupt. bankruptcy n. (pl. -ies). [Italian banca rotta broken bench: related to *bank2]
banksia n. Australian evergreen flowering shrub. [Banks, name of a naturalist]
banner n. 1 large sign bearing a slogan or design, esp. in a demonstration or procession; flag. 2 slogan, esp. political. [Latin bandum standard]
banner headline n. large, esp. front-page, newspaper headline.
bannister var. of *banister.
bannock n. Scot. & N.Engl. round flat loaf, usu. unleavened. [Old English]
banns n.pl. notice announcing an intended marriage, read out in a parish church. [pl. of *ban]
banquet -n. sumptuous, esp. formal, feast or dinner. -v. (-t-) attend, or entertain with, a banquet; feast. [French diminutive of banc bench]
banquette n. upholstered bench, esp. in a restaurant or bar. [French from Italian]
banshee n. Ir. & Scot. wailing female spirit warning of death in a house. [Irish, = fairy woman]
bantam n. 1 a kind of small domestic fowl. 2 small but aggressive person. [apparently from Bantan in Java]
bantamweight n. 1 weight in certain sports between flyweight and featherweight, in amateur boxing 51-4 kg. 2 sportsman of this weight.
banter -n. good-humoured teasing. -v. 1 tease. 2 exchange banter. [origin unknown]
Bantu -n. (pl. same or -s) 1 often offens. member of a large group of central and southern African Blacks. 2 group of languages spoken by them. -adj. of these peoples or languages. [Bantu, = people]
Bantustan n. S.Afr. often offens. = *homeland 2.
banyan n. (also banian) Indian fig tree with self-rooting branches. [Portuguese from Sanskrit, = trader]
baobab n. African tree with a massive trunk and large pulpy fruit. [probably African dial.]
bap n. soft flattish bread roll. [origin unknown]
baptism n. symbolic admission to the Christian Church, with water and usu. name-giving. baptismal adj. [Greek baptizo baptize]
baptism of fire n. 1 initiation into battle. 2 painful initiation into an activity.
baptist n. 1 person who baptizes, esp. John the Baptist. 2 (Baptist) Christian advocating baptism by total immersion.
baptistery n. (pl. -ies) 1 a part of a church used for baptism. b hist. separate building used for baptism. 2 (in a Baptist chapel) receptacle used for immersion.
baptize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 administer baptism to. 2 give a name or nickname to.
bar1 -n. 1 long piece of rigid material, esp. used to confine or obstruct. 2 a something of similar form (bar of soap; bar of chocolate). b band of colour or light. c heating element of an electric fire. d metal strip below the clasp of a medal, awarded as an extra distinction. e Heraldry narrow horizontal stripe across a shield. 3 a counter for serving alcohol etc. on. b room or building containing it. c small shop or stall serving refreshments (snack bar). d counter for a special service (heel bar). 4 a barrier. b restriction (colour bar; bar to promotion). 5 prisoner's enclosure in a lawcourt. 6 any of the sections into which a piece of music is divided by vertical lines. 7 (the Bar) Law a barristers collectively. b profession of barrister. -v. (-rr-) 1 a fasten with a bar or bars. b (usu. foll. by in, out) shut or keep in or out. 2 obstruct, prevent. 3 (usu. foll. by from) prohibit, exclude. 4 mark with stripes. -prep. except. be called to the Bar be admitted as barrister. behind bars in prison. [French]
bar2 n. esp. Meteorol. unit of pressure, 105 newtons per square metre, approx. one atmosphere. [Greek baros weight]
barathea n. fine wool cloth. [origin unknown]
barb -n. 1 secondary backward-facing projection from an arrow, fish-hook, etc. 2 hurtful remark. 3 fleshy filament at the mouth of some fish. -v. 1 fit with a barb. 2 (as barbed adj.) (of a remark etc.) deliberately hurtful. [Latin barba beard]
barbarian -n. 1 uncultured or brutish person. 2 member of a primitive tribe etc. -adj. 1 rough and uncultured. 2 uncivilized. [Greek barbaros foreign]
barbaric adj. 1 uncultured; brutal, cruel. 2 primitive.
barbarism n. 1 barbaric state or act. 2 non-standard word or expression.
barbarity n. (pl. -ies) 1 savage cruelty. 2 brutal act.
barbarous adj. = *barbaric 1.
barbecue -n. 1 a meal cooked over charcoal etc. out of doors. b party for this. 2 grill etc. used for this. -v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) cook on a barbecue. [Spanish from Haitian]
barbed wire n. wire with interwoven sharp spikes, used in fences and barriers.
barbel n. 1 freshwater fish with barbs. 2 = *barb n. 3. [Latin: related to *barb]
barbell n. iron bar with removable weights at each end, used for weightlifting.
barber n. person who cuts men's hair etc. by profession. [medieval Latin barba beard]
barberry n. (pl. -ies) 1 shrub with yellow flowers and red berries. 2 its berry. [French berberis]
barber-shop n. colloq. close harmony singing for four male voices.
barber's pole n. pole with spiral red and white stripes as a barber's sign.
barbican n. outer defence, esp. a double tower above a gate or drawbridge. [French]
barbie n. Austral. slang barbecue. [abbreviation]
bar billiards n.pl. form of billiards with holes in the table.
barbiturate n. soporific or sedative drug from barbituric acid. [German, from the name Barbara]
barbituric acid n. organic acid from which barbiturates are derived.
Barbour n. propr. type of green waxed jacket. [Barbour, name of a draper]
barcarole n. 1 gondoliers' song. 2 music imitating this. [Italian barca boat]
bar code n. machine-readable striped code on packaging etc.
bard n. 1 poet. poet. 2 a hist. Celtic minstrel. b prizewinner at an Eisteddfod. bardic adj. [Celtic]
bare -adj. 1 unclothed or uncovered. 2 leafless; unfurnished; empty. 3 plain, unadorned (the bare truth; bare facts). 4 (attrib.) scanty, just sufficient (a bare majority; bare necessities). -v. (-ring) uncover, reveal (bared his teeth; bared his soul). [Old English]
bareback adj. & adv. without a saddle.
barefaced adj. shameless, impudent.
barefoot adj. & adv. (also barefooted) wearing nothing on the feet.
bareheaded adj. & adv. wearing nothing on the head.
barely adv. 1 scarcely (barely escaped). 2 scantily (barely furnished).
bargain -n. 1 a agreement on the terms of a sale etc. b this from the buyer's viewpoint (a bad bargain). 2 cheap thing. -v. (often foll. by with, for) discuss the terms of a sale etc. (bargained with me; bargain for the table). bargain for (or colloq. on) be prepared for; expect. bargain on rely on. into the bargain moreover. [French from Germanic]
barge -n. 1 long flat-bottomed cargo boat on a canal or river. 2 long ornamental pleasure boat. -v. (-ging) 1 (foll. by in, into) a intrude rudely or awkwardly (barged in on him). b collide with (barged into her). 2 (often foll. by around) move clumsily about. [French: related to *barque]
bargeboard n. board fixed to the gable-end of a roof to hide the ends of the roof timbers. [perhaps from medieval Latin bargus gallows]
bargee n. person sailing a barge.
bargepole n. would not touch with a bargepole refuse to be associated or concerned with.
baritone n. 1 a second-lowest adult male singing voice. b singer with this voice. 2 instrument pitched second-lowest in its family. [Greek barus heavy, tonos tone]
barium n. white soft metallic element. [from *baryta]
barium meal n. mixture swallowed to reveal the abdomen in X-rays.
bark1 -n. 1 sharp explosive cry of a dog, fox, etc. 2 sound like this. -v. 1 (of a dog etc.) give a bark. 2 speak or utter sharply or brusquely. 3 colloq. cough harshly. bark up the wrong tree make false assumptions. [Old English]
bark2 -n. tough outer skin of tree-trunks, branches, etc. -v. 1 graze (one's shin etc.). 2 strip bark from. [Scandinavian]
barker n. tout at an auction, sideshow, etc. [from *bark1]
barley n. 1 cereal used as food and in spirits. 2 (also barleycorn) its grain. [Old English]
barley sugar n. sweet made from sugar, usu. in twisted sticks.
barley water n. drink made from a boiled barley mixture.
barm n. froth on fermenting malt liquor. [Old English]
barmaid n. woman serving in a pub etc.
barman n. man serving in a pub etc.
bar mitzvah n. 1 religious initiation ceremony of a Jewish boy at 13. 2 boy undergoing this. [Hebrew, = son of the commandment]
barmy adj. (-ier, -iest) slang crazy, stupid. [from *barm: earlier, = frothy]
barn n. large farm building for storing grain etc. [Old English, = barley house]
barnacle n. 1 marine crustacean clinging to rocks, ships' bottoms, etc. 2 tenacious attendant or follower. [French or medieval Latin]
barnacle goose n. Arctic goose.
barn dance n. 1 informal gathering for country dancing. 2 a kind of country dance.
barney n. (pl. -s) colloq. noisy quarrel. [perhaps dial.]
barn-owl n. a kind of owl frequenting barns.
barnstorm v. tour rural areas as an actor or political campaigner. barnstormer n.
barnyard n. area around a barn.
barograph n. barometer equipped to record its readings. [Greek baros weight]
barometer n. 1 instrument measuring atmospheric pressure, used in meteorology. 2 anything which reflects change. barometric adj. [related to *barograph]
baron n. 1 member of the lowest order of the British or foreign nobility. 2 powerful businessman, entrepreneur, etc. 3 hist. person holding lands from the sovereign. baronial adj. [medieval Latin, = man]
baroness n. 1 woman holding the rank of baron. 2 baron's wife or widow.
baronet n. member of the lowest hereditary titled British order. baronetcy n. (pl. -ies).
baron of beef n. double sirloin.
barony n. (pl. -ies) domain or rank of a baron.
baroque -adj. 1 highly ornate and extravagant in style, esp. of European art etc. of the 17th and 18th c. 2 of this period. -n. baroque style or art. [Portuguese, originally = misshapen pearl]
bar person n. barmaid or barman.
barque n. 1 sailing-ship with the rear mast fore-and-aft rigged and other masts square-rigged. 2 poet. boat. [Provençal from Latin barca]
barrack1 -n. (usu. in pl., often treated as sing.) 1 housing for soldiers. 2 large bleak building. -v. lodge (soldiers etc.) in barracks. [Italian or Spanish]
barrack2 v. 1 shout or jeer at (players, a speaker, etc.). 2 (foll. by for) cheer for, encourage (a team etc.). [perhaps from Australian slang borak banter]
barracouta n. (pl. same or -s) long slender fish of southern oceans. [var. of *barracuda]
barracuda n. (pl. same or -s) large tropical marine fish. [Spanish]
barrage n. 1 concentrated artillery bombardment. 2 rapid succession of questions or criticisms. 3 artificial barrier in a river etc. [French barrer *bar1]
barrage balloon n. large anchored balloon used as a defence against low-flying aircraft.
barratry n. fraud or gross negligence by a ship's master or crew. [French barat deceit]
barre n. horizontal bar at waist level, used in dance exercises. [French]
barré n. method of playing a chord on the guitar etc. with a finger laid across the strings at a particular fret. [French barrer bar]
barrel -n. 1 cylindrical usu. convex container. 2 its contents. 3 measure of capacity (30 to 40 gallons). 4 cylindrical tube forming part of an object, e.g. a gun or a pen. -v. (-ll-; US -l-) put into a barrel or barrels. over a barrel colloq. helpless, at a person's mercy. [French]
barrel-organ n. mechanical musical instrument with a rotating pin-studded cylinder.
barren adj. (-er, -est) 1 a unable to bear young. b (of land, a tree, etc.) unproductive. 2 unprofitable, dull. barrenness n. [French]
barricade -n. barrier, esp. improvised. -v. (-ding) block or defend with this. [French barrique cask]
barrier n. 1 fence etc. that bars advance or access. 2 obstacle (class barriers). [Romanic: related to *bar1]
barrier cream n. protective skin cream.
barrier reef n. coral reef separated from the shore by a channel.
barring prep. except, not including.
barrister n. advocate entitled to practise in the higher courts. [from *bar1: cf. *minister]
barrow1 n. 1 two-wheeled handcart. 2 = *wheelbarrow. [Old English: related to *bear1]
barrow2 n. ancient grave-mound. [Old English]
bar sinister n. = *bend sinister.
bartender n. person serving in a pub etc.
barter -v. 1 trade in goods without using money. 2 exchange (goods). -n. trade by bartering. [perhaps from French]
baryon n. heavy elementary particle (i.e. a nucleon or a hyperon). [Greek barus heavy]
baryta n. barium oxide or hydroxide. [from *barytes]
barytes n. mineral form of barium sulphate. [Greek barus heavy]
basal adj. of, at, or forming a base.
basalt n. a dark volcanic rock. basaltic adj. [Latin basaltes from Greek]
base1 -n. 1 a part supporting from beneath or serving as a foundation. b notional support or foundation (power base). 2 principle or starting-point. 3 esp. Mil. headquarters. 4 main or important ingredient. 5 number in terms of which other numbers or logarithms are expressed. 6 substance capable of combining with an acid to form a salt. 7 Baseball etc. each of the four stations on a pitch. -v. (-sing) 1 (usu. foll. by on, upon) found or establish (a theory, hope, etc.). 2 station (troops based in Malta). [Greek basis stepping]
base2 adj. 1 cowardly, despicable. 2 menial. 3 alloyed (base coin). 4 (of a metal) low in value. [Latin bassus]
baseball n. 1 game played esp. in the US with a circuit of four bases which batsmen must complete. 2 ball used in this.
baseless adj. unfounded, groundless.
baseline n. 1 line used as a base or starting-point. 2 line marking each end of a tennis-court.
basement n. floor of a building below ground level.
base rate n. interest rate set by the Bank of England, used as the basis for other banks' rates.
bases pl. of *base1, *basis.
bash -v. 1 a strike bluntly or heavily. b (often foll. by up) colloq. attack violently. c (often foll. by down, in, etc.) damage or break by striking forcibly. 2 (foll. by into) collide with. -n. 1 heavy blow. 2 slang attempt. [imitative]
bashful adj. shy, diffident. bashfully adv. [as *abashed]
BASIC n. computer programming language using familiar English words. [Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code]
basic -adj. 1 serving as a base; fundamental. 2 a simplest or lowest in level (basic pay, needs). b vulgar (basic humour). -n. (usu. in pl.) fundamental facts or principles. basically adv.
basic slag n. fertilizer containing phosphates formed as a by-product in steel manufacture.
basil n. aromatic herb used as flavouring. [Greek basilikos royal]
basilica n. 1 ancient Roman hall with an apse and colonnades, used as a lawcourt etc. 2 similar building as a Christian church. [Greek basilike (stoa) royal (portico)]
basilisk n. 1 mythical reptile with lethal breath and glance. 2 small American crested lizard. [Greek, diminutive of basileus king]
basin n. 1 round open vessel for holding liquids or preparing food in. 2 = *wash-basin. 3 hollow depression. 4 sheltered mooring area. 5 round valley. 6 area drained by a river. basinful n. (pl. -s). [medieval Latin ba(s)cinus]
basis n. (pl. bases) 1 foundation or support. 2 main principle or ingredient (on a friendly basis). 3 starting-point for a discussion etc. [Greek: related to *base1]
bask v. 1 relax in warmth and light. 2 (foll. by in) revel in (basking in glory). [Old Norse: related to *bathe]
basket n. 1 container made of interwoven cane, reed, wire, etc. 2 amount held by this. 3 the goal in basketball, or a goal scored. 4 Econ. group or range (of currencies). [French]
basketball n. 1 game in which goals are scored by putting the ball through high nets. 2 ball used in this.
basketry n. 1 art of weaving cane etc. 2 work so produced.
basket weave n. weave like wickerwork.
basketwork n. = *basketry.
basking shark n. large shark which lies near the surface of the sea.
Basque -n. 1 member of a people of the Western Pyrenees. 2 their language. -adj. of the Basques or their language. [Latin Vasco]
bas-relief n. sculpture or carving with figures projecting slightly from the background. [French and Italian]
bass1 -n. 1 a lowest adult male singing voice. b singer with this voice. 2 instrument pitched lowest in its family. 3 colloq. bass guitar or double-bass. 4 low-frequency output of a radio, record-player, etc. -adj. 1 lowest in musical pitch. 2 deep-sounding. bassist n. (in sense 3). [from *base2 altered after Italian basso]
bass2 n. (pl. same or -es) 1 common perch. 2 other spiny-finned fish of the perch family. [Old English]
bass clef n. clef placing F below middle C on the second highest line of the staff.
basset n. (in full basset-hound) sturdy hunting-dog with a long body and short legs. [French diminutive of bas low]
bass guitar n. electric guitar tuned as a double-bass.
bassinet n. child's wicker cradle, usu. hooded. [French diminutive of bassin *basin]
basso n. (pl. -s) singer with a bass voice. [Italian, = *bass1]
bassoon n. bass instrument of the oboe family. bassoonist n. [Italian: related to *bass1]
bast n. fibre from the inner bark of a tree (esp. the lime). [Old English]
bastard often offens. -n. 1 person born of an unmarried mother. 2 slang a unpleasant or despicable person. b person of a specified kind (poor, lucky, bastard). 3 slang difficult or awkward thing. -attrib. adj. 1 illegitimate by birth. 2 unauthorized, counterfeit, hybrid. bastardy n. (in sense 1 of n.). [French from medieval Latin]
bastardize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 corrupt, debase. 2 declare (a person) illegitimate.
baste1 v. (-ting) 1 moisten (meat) with fat etc. during cooking. 2 beat, thrash. [origin unknown]
baste2 v. (-ting) sew with large loose stitches, tack. [French from Germanic]
bastinado -n. beating with a stick on the soles of the feet. -v. (-es, -ed) punish in this way. [Spanish baston stick]
bastion n. 1 projecting part of a fortification. 2 thing regarded as protecting (bastion of freedom). [Italian bastire build]
bat1 -n. 1 implement with a handle, used for hitting balls in games. 2 turn with this. 3 batsman. -v. (-tt-) 1 hit with or as with a bat. 2 take a turn at batting. off one's own bat unprompted, unaided. [Old English from French]
bat2 n. mouselike nocturnal flying mammal. [Scandinavian]
bat3 v. (-tt-) not (or never) bat an eyelid colloq. show no reaction or emotion. [var. of obsolete bate flutter]
batch -n. 1 group of things or persons considered or dealt with together; instalment. 2 loaves produced at one baking. 3 Computing group of records processed as one unit. -v. arrange or deal with in batches. [related to *bake]
bated adj. with bated breath very anxiously. [as *abate]
bath -n. (pl. -s) 1 a (usu. plumbed-in) container for sitting in and washing the body. b its contents. 2 act of washing in it (have a bath). 3 (usu. in pl.) public building with baths or a swimming-pool. 4 a vessel containing liquid for immersing something, e.g. a film for developing. b its contents. -v. 1 wash (esp. a baby) in a bath. 2 take a bath. [Old English]
Bath bun n. round spiced bun with currants, often iced. [Bath in S. England]
Bath chair n. wheelchair for invalids.
bath cube n. cube of soluble substance for scenting or softening bath-water.
bathe -v. (-thing) 1 immerse oneself in water, esp. to swim or wash oneself. 2 immerse in, wash, or treat with liquid. 3 (of sunlight etc.) envelop. -n. swim. [Old English]
bathhouse n. public building with baths.
bathing-costume n. (also bathing-suit) garment worn for swimming.
bathos n. lapse in mood from the sublime to the absurd or trivial; anticlimax. bathetic adj. bathotic adj. [Greek, = depth]
bathrobe n. esp. US dressing-gown, esp. of towelling.
bathroom n. 1 room with a bath, wash-basin, etc. 2 US room with a lavatory.
bath salts n.pl. soluble powder or crystals for scenting or softening bath-water.
bathyscaphe n. manned vessel for deep-sea diving. [Greek bathus deep, skaphos ship]
bathysphere n. vessel for deep-sea observation. [Greek bathus deep, *sphere]
batik n. 1 method of dyeing textiles by applying wax to parts to be left uncoloured. 2 cloth so treated. [Javanese, = painted]
batiste n. fine linen or cotton cloth. [French from Baptiste, name of the first maker]
batman n. army officer's servant. [bat pack-saddle, from French]
baton n. 1 thin stick for conducting an orchestra etc. 2 short stick passed on in a relay race. 3 stick carried by a drum major. 4 staff of office. [French from Latin]
baton round n. rubber or plastic bullet.
batrachian -n. amphibian that discards its gills and tail, esp. a frog or toad. -adj. of batrachians. [Greek batrakhos frog]
bats predic. adj. slang crazy. [originally pl. of *bat2]
batsman n. person who bats, esp. in cricket.
battalion n. 1 army unit usu. of 300-1000 men. 2 large group with a common aim. [Italian battaglia *battle]
batten1 -n. 1 a long flat strip of squared timber. b horizontal strip of wood to which laths, tiles, etc., are fastened. 2 strip for securing tarpaulin over a ship's hatchway. -v. strengthen or (often foll. by down) fasten with battens. [French: related to *batter1]
batten2 v. (foll. by on) thrive at the expense of (another). [Old Norse]
Battenberg n. oblong sponge cake, usu. of two colours and covered with marzipan. [Battenberg in Germany]
batter1 v. 1 a strike hard and repeatedly. b (often foll. by against, at, etc.) pound insistently (batter at the door). 2 (often in passive) a subject to long-term violence (battered baby, wife). b criticize severely. batterer n. [French battre beat: related to *battle]
batter2 n. mixture of flour, egg, and milk or water, used for pancakes etc. [French: related to *batter1]
battered adj. coated in batter and deep-fried.
battering-ram n. hist. beam used in breaching fortifications.
battery n. (pl. -ies) 1 usu. portable container of an electrically charged cell or cells as a source of current. 2 (often attrib.) series of cages for the intensive breeding and rearing of poultry or cattle. 3 set of similar units of equipment; series, sequence. 4 emplacement for heavy guns. 5 Law unlawful physical violence against a person. [Latin: related to *battle]
battle -n. 1 prolonged fight between armed forces. 2 difficult struggle; contest (battle for supremacy; battle of wits). -v. (-ling) engage in battle; fight. half the battle key to the success of an undertaking. [Latin battuo beat]
battleaxe n. 1 large axe used in ancient warfare. 2 colloq. formidable older woman.
battlebus n. colloq. bus used by a politician during an election campaign as a mobile centre of operations.
battle-cruiser n. hist. warship of higher speed and lighter armour than a battleship.
battle-cry n. cry or slogan used in a battle or contest.
battledore n. hist. 1 (in full battledore and shuttlecock) game played with a shuttlecock and rackets. 2 racket used in this. [perhaps from Provençal batedor beater]
battledress n. everyday uniform of a soldier.
battlefield n. (also battleground) scene of a battle.
battlement n. (usu. in pl.) recessed parapet along the top of a wall, as part of a fortification. [French batailler fortify]
battle royal n. 1 battle of many combatants; free fight. 2 heated argument.
battleship n. heavily armoured warship.
batty adj. (-ier, -iest) slang crazy. [from *bat2]
batwing attrib. adj. (esp. of a sleeve) shaped like a bat's wing.
bauble n. showy worthless trinket or toy. [French ba(u)bel toy]
baulk (also balk) -v. 1 (often foll. by at) jib, hesitate. 2 a thwart, hinder. b disappoint. 3 miss, let slip (a chance etc.). -n. 1 hindrance; stumbling-block. 2 roughly-squared timber beam. [Old English]
bauxite n. claylike mineral, the chief source of aluminium. [French from Les Baux in S. France]
bawdy -adj. (-ier, -iest) humorously indecent. -n. such talk or writing. [bawd brothel-keeper from French baudetrot]
bawdy-house n. brothel.
bawl v. 1 speak or shout noisily. 2 weep loudly. bawl out colloq. reprimand angrily. [imitative]
bay1 n. broad curving inlet of the sea. [Spanish bahia]
bay2 n. 1 laurel with deep green leaves. 2 (in pl.) bay wreath, for a victor or poet. [Latin baca berry]
bay3 n. 1 recess; alcove in a wall. 2 compartment (bomb bay). 3 area specially allocated (loading bay). [French baer gape]
bay4 -adj. (esp. of a horse) dark reddish-brown. -n. bay horse. [Latin badius]
bay5 -v. bark or howl loudly and plaintively. -n. sound of this, esp. of hounds in close pursuit. at bay cornered, unable to escape. keep at bay hold off (a pursuer). [French bayer to bark]
bayberry n. (pl. -ies) fragrant N. American tree.
bay-leaf n. leaf of the bay-tree, used for flavouring.
bayonet -n. 1 stabbing blade attachable to the muzzle of a rifle. 2 electrical fitting pushed into a socket and twisted. -v. (-t-) stab with bayonet. [French, perhaps from Bayonne in SW France]
bay rum n. perfume distilled orig. from bayberry leaves in rum.
bay window n. window projecting outwards from a wall.
bazaar n. 1 oriental market. 2 fund-raising sale of goods, esp. for charity. [Persian]
bazooka n. anti-tank rocket-launcher. [origin unknown]
BB abbr. double-black (pencil-lead).
BBC abbr. British Broadcasting Corporation.
BC abbr. British Columbia.
BC abbr. before Christ.
BCG abbr. Bacillus Calmette-Guérin, an anti-tuberculosis vaccine.
BD abbr. Bachelor of Divinity.
bdellium n. 1 tree yielding resin. 2 this used in perfumes. [Latin from Greek]
Be symb. beryllium.
be v. (sing. present am; are; is; past was; were; pres. part. being; past part. been) 1 exist, live (I think, therefore I am; there is no God). 2 a occur; take place (dinner is at eight). b occupy a position (he is in the garden). 3 remain, continue (let it be). 4 linking subject and predicate, expressing: a identity (she is the person). b condition (he is ill today). c state or quality (he is kind; they are my friends). d opinion (I am against hanging). e total (two and two are four). f cost or significance (it is £5 to enter; it is nothing to me). 5 v.aux. a with a past participle to form the passive (it was done; it is said). b with a present participle to form continuous tenses (we are coming; it is being cleaned). c with an infinitive to express duty or commitment, intention, possibility, destiny, or hypothesis (I am to tell you; we are to wait here; he is to come at four; it was not to be found; they were never to meet again; if I were to die). be at occupy oneself with (what is he at?; mice have been at the food). be off colloq. go away; leave. -to-be of the future (in comb.: bride-to-be). [Old English]
be- prefix forming verbs: 1 (from transitive verbs) a all over; all round (beset). b thoroughly, excessively (begrudge). 2 (from intransitive verbs) expressing transitive action (bemoan; bestride). 3 (from adjectives and nouns) expressing transitive action (becalm). 4 (from nouns) a affect with (befog). b treat as (befriend). c (forming adjectives in -ed) having (bejewelled). [Old English, = *by]
beach -n. pebbly or sandy shore esp. of the sea. -v. run or haul (a boat etc.) on to a beach. [origin unknown]
beachcomber n. person who searches beaches for articles of value.
beachhead n. fortified position set up on a beach by landing forces.
beacon n. 1 fire or light set up high as a warning etc. 2 visible warning or guiding device (e.g. a lighthouse, navigation buoy, etc.). 3 radio transmitter whose signal helps fix the position of a ship or aircraft. 4 = *Belisha beacon. [Old English]
bead -n. 1 a small usu. rounded piece of glass, stone, etc., for threading to make necklaces etc., or sewing on to fabric, etc. b (in pl.) bead necklace; rosary. 2 drop of liquid. 3 small knob in the foresight of a gun. 4 inner edge of a pneumatic tyre gripping the rim of the wheel. -v. adorn with or as with beads. draw a bead on take aim at. [Old English, = prayer]
beading n. 1 moulding or carving like a series of beads. 2 bead of a tyre.
beadle n. 1 ceremonial officer of a church, college, etc. 2 Scot. church officer serving the minister. 3 hist. minor parish disciplinary officer. [French from Germanic]
beady adj. (-ier, -iest) (esp. of the eyes) small, round, and bright.
beady-eyed adj. 1 with beady eyes. 2 observant.
beagle n. small short-haired hound used for hunting hares. [French]
beak1 n. 1 a bird's horny projecting jaws. b similar jaw of a turtle etc. 2 slang hooked nose. 3 hist. pointed prow of a warship. 4 spout. [French from Celtic]
beak2 n. slang 1 magistrate. 2 schoolmaster. [probably thieves' cant]
beaker n. 1 tall cup or tumbler. 2 lipped glass vessel for scientific experiments. [Old Norse]
be-all and end-all n. colloq. (often foll. by of) whole being, essence.
beam -n. 1 long sturdy piece of squared timber or metal used in house-building etc. 2 ray or shaft of light or radiation. 3 bright look or smile. 4 series of radio or radar signals as a guide to a ship or aircraft. 5 crossbar of a balance. 6 a ship's breadth. b width of a person's hips. 7 (in pl.) horizontal cross-timbers of a ship. -v. 1 emit or direct (light, approval, etc.). 2 a shine. b look or smile radiantly. off (or off the) beam colloq. mistaken. on the beam colloq. on the right track. [Old English, = tree]
bean n. 1 a climber with edible seeds in long pods. b seed or pod of this. 2 similar seed of coffee etc. full of beans colloq. lively, exuberant. not a bean slang no money. [Old English]
beanbag n. 1 small bag filled with dried beans and used as a ball. 2 large bag filled usu. with polystyrene pieces and used as a chair.
beanfeast n. 1 colloq. celebration. 2 workers' annual dinner.
beano n. (pl. -s) slang celebration, party.
beanpole n. 1 support for bean plants. 2 colloq. tall thin person.
bean sprout n. sprout of a bean seed as food.
beanstalk n. stem of a bean plant.
bear1 v. (past bore; past part. borne or born) 1 carry, bring, or take (esp. visibly) (bear gifts). 2 show; have, esp. characteristically (bear marks of violence; bears no relation to the case; bore no name). 3 a produce, yield (fruit etc.). b give birth to (has borne a son; was born last week). 4 a sustain (a weight, responsibility, cost, etc.). b endure (an ordeal, difficulty, etc.). 5 (usu. with neg. or interrog.) a tolerate (can't bear him). b admit of (does not bear thinking about). 6 carry mentally (bear a grudge). 7 veer in a given direction (bear left). 8 bring or provide (something needed) (bear him company). bear down press downwards. bear down on approach inexorably. bear on (or upon) be relevant to. bear out support or confirm as evidence. bear up not despair. bear with tolerate patiently. bear witness testify. [Old English]
bear2 n. 1 any of several large heavy mammals with thick fur. 2 rough or uncouth person. 3 person who sells shares hoping to repurchase them more cheaply. the Great Bear, the Little Bear constellations near the North Pole. [Old English]
bearable adj. endurable.
beard -n. 1 facial hair on the chin etc. 2 similar tuft etc. on an animal. -v. oppose; defy. bearded adj. beardless adj. [Old English]
bearer n. 1 person or thing that bears, carries, or brings. 2 person who presents a cheque etc.
beargarden n. rowdy scene.
bear-hug n. tight embrace.
bearing n. 1 bodily attitude; general manner. 2 (foll. by on, upon) relevance to (has no bearing on it). 3 endurability (beyond bearing). 4 part of a machine supporting a rotating part. 5 a direction or position relative to a fixed point. b (in pl.) knowledge of one's relative position. 6 Heraldry device or charge.
Béarnaise sauce n. rich thick sauce with egg-yolks. [French]
bearskin n. 1 skin of a bear, esp. as a wrap etc. 2 tall furry hat worn by some regiments.
beast n. 1 animal, esp. a wild mammal. 2 a brutal person. b colloq. objectionable person or thing. 3 (prec. by the) the animal nature in man. [Latin bestia]
beastly -adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 colloq. objectionable, unpleasant. 2 like a beast; brutal. -adv. colloq. very, extremely.
beast of prey n. animal which hunts animals for food.
beat -v. (past beat; past part. beaten) 1 a strike persistently and violently. b strike (a carpet, drum, etc.) repeatedly. 2 (foll. by against, at, on, etc.) pound or knock repeatedly. 3 a overcome; surpass. b be too hard for; perplex. 4 (often foll. by up) whisk (eggs etc.) vigorously. 5 (often foll. by out) shape (metal etc.) by blows. 6 (of the heart etc.) pulsate rhythmically. 7 (often foll. by out) a indicate (a tempo etc.) by tapping etc. b sound (a signal etc.) by striking a drum etc. (beat a tattoo). 8 move or cause (wings) to move up and down. 9 make (a path etc.) by trampling. 10 strike (bushes etc.) to rouse game. -n. 1 a main accent in music or verse. b rhythm indicated by a conductor (watch the beat). c (in popular music) strong rhythm. 2 a stroke or blow or measured sequence of strokes. b throbbing movement or sound. 3 a police officer's route or area. b person's habitual round. -predic. adj. slang exhausted, tired out. beat about the bush not come to the point. beat the bounds mark parish boundaries by striking certain points with rods. beat down 1 cause (a seller) to lower the price by bargaining. 2 strike to the ground (beat the door down). 3 (of the sun, rain, etc.) shine or fall relentlessly. beat it slang go away. beat off drive back (an attack etc.). beat a person to it arrive or do something before another person. beat up beat, esp. with punches and kicks. beatable adj. [Old English]
beater n. 1 implement for beating (esp. eggs). 2 person who rouses game at a shoot.
beatific adj. 1 colloq. blissful (beatific smile). 2 making blessed. [Latin beatus blessed]
beatify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 RC Ch. declare (a person) to be 'blessed', often as a step towards canonization. 2 make happy. beatification n.
beatitude n. 1 perfect bliss or happiness. 2 (in pl.) blessings in Matt. 5:3-11.
beatnik n. member of a movement of socially unconventional young people in the 1950s.
beat-up adj. colloq. dilapidated.
beau n. (pl. -x) 1 esp. US admirer; boyfriend. 2 fop; dandy. [Latin bellus pretty]
Beaufort scale n. scale of wind speed ranging from 0 (calm) to 12 (hurricane). [Sir F. Beaufort, name of an admiral]
Beaujolais n. red or white wine from the Beaujolais district of France.
Beaujolais Nouveau n. Beaujolais wine sold in the first year of a vintage.
beauteous adj. poet. beautiful.
beautician n. specialist in beauty treatment.
beautiful adj. 1 having beauty, pleasing to the eye, ear, or mind etc. (beautiful voice). 2 pleasant, enjoyable (had a beautiful time). 3 excellent (beautiful specimen). beautifully adv.
beautify v. (-ies, -ied) make beautiful; adorn. beautification n.
beauty n. (pl. -ies) 1 combination of shape, colour, sound, etc., that pleases the senses. 2 colloq. a excellent specimen (what a beauty!). b attractive feature; advantage (that's the beauty of it!). 3 beautiful woman. [Latin bellus pretty]
beauty parlour n. (also beauty salon) establishment for cosmetic treatment.
beauty queen n. woman judged most beautiful in a contest.
beauty spot n. 1 place of scenic beauty. 2 small facial mark considered to enhance the appearance.
beaux pl. of *beau.
beaver1 -n. 1 a amphibious broad-tailed rodent which cuts down trees with its teeth and dams rivers. b its fur. c hat of this. 2 (Beaver) boy aged six or seven affiliated to the Scouts. -v. colloq. (usu. foll. by away) work hard. [Old English]
beaver2 n. hist. lower face-guard of a helmet. [French, = bib]
beaver lamb n. lamb's wool made to look like beaver fur.
bebop n. type of 1940s jazz with complex harmony and rhythms. [imitative]
becalm v. (usu. in passive) deprive (a ship) of wind.
became past of *become.
because conj. for the reason that; since. because of on account of; by reason of. [from *by, *cause]
béchamel n. a kind of thick white sauce. [Marquis de Béchamel, name of a courtier]
beck1 n. N.Engl. brook; mountain stream. [Old Norse]
beck2 n. at a person's beck and call subject to a person's constant orders. [from *beckon]
beckon v. 1 (often foll. by to) summon by gesture. 2 entice. [Old English]
become v. (-ming; past became; past part. become) 1 begin to be (became king, famous). 2 (often as becoming adj.) a look well on; suit (blue becomes him). b befit (it ill becomes you to complain; becoming modesty). become of happen to (what became of her?). [Old English: related to *be-]
becquerel n. SI unit of radioactivity. [Becquerel, name of a physicist]
bed -n. 1 piece of furniture for sleeping on. 2 any place used for sleep or rest. 3 garden plot, esp. for flowers. 4 a bottom of the sea, a river, etc. b foundations of a road or railway. 5 stratum, layer. -v. (-dd-) 1 (usu. foll. by down) put or go to bed. 2 colloq. have sexual intercourse with. 3 (usu. foll. by out) plant in a garden bed. 4 cover up or fix firmly. 5 arrange as a layer. bed of roses life of ease. go to bed 1 retire to sleep. 2 (often foll. by with) have sexual intercourse. [Old English]
B.Ed. abbr. Bachelor of Education.
bed and board n. lodging and food.
bed and breakfast n. 1 room and breakfast in a hotel etc. 2 establishment providing this.
bedaub v. smear or daub.
bedazzle v. (-ling) 1 dazzle. 2 confuse.
bedbug n. wingless parasite infesting beds etc.
bedclothes n.pl. sheets, blankets, etc., for a bed.
bedding n. 1 mattress and bedclothes. 2 litter for animals. 3 geological strata.
bedding plant n. plant suitable for a garden bed.
bedeck v. adorn.
bedevil v. (-ll-; US -l-) 1 trouble, vex. 2 confound, confuse. 3 torment, abuse. bedevilment n.
bedew v. cover or sprinkle (as) with dew.
bedfellow n. 1 person who shares a bed. 2 associate.
bedizen v. poet. deck out gaudily. [from *be-, obsolete dizen deck out]
bedjacket n. jacket worn when sitting up in bed.
bedlam n. uproar and confusion. [St Mary of Bethlehem, name of a hospital in London]
bedlinen n. sheets and pillowcases.
Bedlington terrier n. terrier with a narrow head, long legs, and curly grey hair. [Bedlington in Northumberland]
Bedouin n. (also Beduin) (pl. same) 1 nomadic desert Arab. 2 wandering person. [Arabic, = dwellers in the desert]
bedpan n. portable toilet for use in bed.
bedpost n. each of four upright supports of a bed.
bedraggled adj. dishevelled, untidy.
bedrest n. recuperation in bed.
bedridden adj. confined to bed by infirmity.
bedrock n. 1 solid rock underlying alluvial deposits etc. 2 basic principles.
bedroom n. room for sleeping in.
bedside n. space beside esp. a patient's bed. bedside manner (esp. doctor's) way with patients.
bedsit n. (also bedsitter, bedsitting room) combined bedroom and sitting-room with cooking facilities.
bedsock n. warm sock worn in bed.
bedsore n. sore developed by lying in bed.
bedspread n. cover for a bed.
bedstead n. framework of a bed.
bedstraw n. small herbaceous plant.
bedtime n. (often attrib.) usual time for going to bed (bedtime drink).
Beduin var. of *Bedouin.
bedwetting n. involuntary urination when asleep in bed.
bee n. 1 four-winged stinging insect, collecting nectar and pollen and producing wax and honey. 2 (usu. busy bee) busy person. 3 esp. US meeting for work or amusement. a bee in one's bonnet obsession. [Old English]
Beeb n. (prec. by the) colloq. BBC. [abbreviation]
beech n. 1 large smooth grey tree with glossy leaves. 2 its hard wood. [Old English]
beechmast n. (pl. same) fruit of the beech.
beef -n. 1 flesh of the ox, bull, or cow for eating. 2 colloq. male muscle. 3 (pl. beeves or US -s) ox etc. bred for beef. 4 (pl. -s) slang complaint. -v. slang complain. beef up slang strengthen, reinforce. [Latin bos bovis ox]
beefburger n. = *hamburger.
beefcake n. esp. US slang male muscle.
beefeater n. 1 warder at the Tower of London. 2 Yeoman of the Guard.
beefsteak n. thick slice of beef for grilling or frying.
beef tea n. stewed beef extract for invalids.
beef tomato n. large tomato.
beefy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like beef. 2 solid, muscular. beefiness n.
beehive n. 1 artificial shelter for a colony of bees. 2 busy place.
bee-keeper n. keeper of bees. bee-keeping n.
beeline n. make a beeline for go directly to.
Beelzebub n. the Devil. [Hebrew, = lord of the flies]
been past part. of *be.
beep -n. sound of a (esp. motor-car) horn. -v. emit a beep. [imitative]
beer n. 1 alcoholic drink made from fermented malt etc., flavoured with hops. 2 glass of this. beer and skittles amusement. [Old English]
beer-cellar n. cellar for storing, or selling and drinking, beer.
beer garden n. (also beer hall) garden (or large room) where beer is sold and drunk.
beer-mat n. small mat for a beer-glass.
beery adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 affected by beer-drinking. 2 like beer.
beeswax -n. 1 wax secreted by bees to make honeycombs. 2 this used to polish wood. -v. polish with beeswax.
beeswing n. filmy second crust on old port.
beet n. plant with an edible root (see *beetroot, *sugar beet). [Old English]
beetle1 -n. insect, esp. black, with hard protective outer wings. -v. (-ling) colloq. (foll. by about, off, etc.) hurry, scurry. [Old English: related to *bite]
beetle2 -adj. projecting, shaggy, scowling (beetle brows). -v. (usu. as beetling adj.) (of brows, cliffs, etc.) project, overhang. [origin unknown]
beetle3 n. heavy tool for ramming, crushing, etc. [Old English: related to *beat]
beetle-browed adj. with shaggy, projecting, or scowling eyebrows.
beetroot n. beet with an edible dark-red root.
beeves pl. of *beef.
befall v. (past befell; past part. befallen) poet. happen; happen to. [Old English: related to *be-]
befit v. (-tt-) be appropriate for; be incumbent on.
befog v. (-gg-) 1 confuse, obscure. 2 envelop in fog.
before -conj. 1 earlier than the time when (see me before you go). 2 rather than that (would die before he stole). -prep. 1 earlier than (before noon). 2 a in front of, ahead of (before her in the queue). b in the face of (recoil before the attack). c awaiting (the future before them). 3 rather than (death before dishonour). 4 a in the presence of (appear before the judge). b for the attention of (put before the committee). -adv. 1 previously; already (happened long before; done it before). 2 ahead (go before). 3 on the front (hit before and behind). [Old English: related to *by, *fore]
Before Christ adv. (of a date) reckoned backwards from the birth of Christ.
beforehand adv. in advance, in readiness.
befriend v. act as a friend to; help.
befuddle v. (-ling) 1 make drunk. 2 confuse.
beg v. (-gg-) 1 a (usu. foll. by for) ask for (food, money, etc.). b live by begging. 2 ask earnestly, humbly, or formally (for) (begged for mercy; beg your indulgence; beg leave). 3 (of a dog etc.) sit up with the front paws raised expectantly. 4 (foll. by to + infin.) take leave (I beg to differ). beg off 1 ask to be excused from something. 2 get (a person) excused a penalty etc. beg pardon see *pardon. beg the question assume the truth of a proposition needing proof. go begging be unwanted or refused. [related to *bid]
Usage The expression beg the question is often used incorrectly to mean (1) to avoid giving a straight answer, or (2) to invite the obvious question (that …). These uses should be avoided.
began past of *begin.
beget v. (-tt-; past begot; archaic begat; past part. begotten) literary 1 father, procreate. 2 cause (anger begets violence). [Old English: related to *be-]
beggar -n. 1 person who lives by begging. 2 colloq. person (cheeky beggar). -v. 1 make poor. 2 be too extraordinary for (beggar description). beggarly adj.
begin v. (-nn-; past began; past part. begun) 1 perform the first part of; start (begin work; begin crying; begin to understand). 2 come into being (war began in 1939; Wales begins here). 3 (usu. foll. by to + infin.) start at a certain time (soon began to feel ill). 4 be begun (meeting began at 7). 5 a start speaking ('No,' he began). b take the first step, be the first (shall I begin?). 6 (usu. with neg.) colloq. show any likelihood (can't begin to compete). [Old English]
beginner n. trainee, learner. beginner's luck supposed good luck of a beginner.
beginning n. 1 time or place at which anything begins. 2 source or origin. 3 first part.
begone int. poet. go away at once! [be gone]
begonia n. garden plant with bright flowers and leaves. [Bégon, name of a patron of science]
begot past of *beget.
begotten past part. of *beget.
begrudge v. (-ging) 1 resent; be dissatisfied at. 2 envy (a person) the possession of. begrudgingly adv.
beguile v. (-ling) 1 charm; amuse. 2 wilfully divert, seduce. 3 (usu. foll. by of, out of, or into + verbal noun) delude; cheat. beguilement n. beguiling adj.
beguine n. popular dance of W. Indian origin. [French béguin infatuation]
begum n. in India or Pakistan: 1 Muslim woman of high rank. 2 (Begum) title of a married Muslim woman. [Turkish bigam princess]
begun past part. of *begin.
behalf n. on behalf of (or on a person's behalf) in the interests of; as representative of. [earlier bihalve on the part of]
behave v. (-ving) 1 act or react (in a specified way) (behaved well). 2 (often refl.) conduct oneself properly (behave yourself!). 3 (of a machine etc.) work well (or in a specified way). [from *be-, *have]
behavior n. (Brit. behaviour) way of behaving or acting. behavioral adj.
behavioral science n. (Brit. behavioural) the study of human behavior.
behaviorism n. (Brit. behaviourism) Psychol. theory that human behavior is determined by conditioned response to stimuli, and that psychological disorders are best treated by altering behavior. behaviorist n.
behaviour n. (US behavior) way of behaving or acting. behavioural adj.
behavioural science n. (US behavioral) the study of human behaviour.
behaviourism n. (US behaviorism) Psychol. theory that human behaviour is determined by conditioned response to stimuli, and that psychological disorders are best treated by altering behaviour. behaviourist n.
behead v. cut the head off (a person), esp. as execution. [Old English: related to *be-]
beheld past and past part. of *behold.
behemoth n. huge creature or thing. [Hebrew (Job 40:15)]
behest n. literary command; request. [Old English]
behind -prep. 1 a in or to the rear of. b on the far side of (behind the bush). c hidden or implied by (something behind that remark). 2 a in the past in relation to (trouble is behind me now). b late regarding (behind schedule). 3 inferior to; weaker than (behind the others in maths). 4 a in support of (she's behind us). b responsible for (the man behind the project). 5 in the tracks of; following. -adv. 1 a in or to the rear; further back (the street behind; glance behind). b on the further side (wall with a field behind). 2 remaining after others' departure (stay behind). 3 (usu. foll. by with) a in arrears. b late in finishing a task etc. (getting behind). 4 in a weak position; backward (behind in Latin). 5 following (dog running behind). -n. colloq. buttocks. behind the scenes see *scene. behind time late. behind the times old-fashioned, antiquated. [Old English]
behindhand adv. & predic.adj. 1 (usu. foll. by with, in) late; in arrears. 2 out of date.
behold v. (past and past part. beheld) (esp. in imper.) literary see, observe. [Old English: related to *be-]
beholden predic. adj. (usu. foll. by to) under obligation.
behove v. (-ving) formal 1 be incumbent on. 2 befit (it ill behoves him to protest). [Old English: related to *be, *heave]
beige -n. pale sandy fawn colour. -adj. of this colour. [French]
being n. 1 existence. 2 nature or essence (of a person etc.) (his whole being revolted). 3 person or creature.
bejeweled adj. (Brit. bejewelled) adorned with jewels.
bejewelled adj. (US bejeweled) adorned with jewels.
bel n. unit of relative power level, esp. of sound, corresponding to an intensity ratio of 10 to 1 (cf. *decibel). [Bell, name of the inventor of the telephone]
belabor v. (Brit. belabour) 1 attack physically or verbally. 2 labor (a subject).
belabour v. (US belabor) 1 attack physically or verbally. 2 labour (a subject).
belated adj. late or too late. belatedly adv.
belay -v. secure (a rope) by winding it round a peg etc. -n. act of belaying. [Dutch beleggen]
bel canto n. lyrical rich-toned style of operatic singing. [Italian, = fine song]
belch -v. 1 emit wind noisily through the mouth. 2 (of a chimney, gun, etc.) send (smoke etc.) out or up. -n. act of belching. [Old English]
beleaguer v. 1 besiege. 2 vex; harass. [Dutch leger camp]
belfry n. (pl. -ies) 1 bell tower. 2 space for bells in a church tower. [Germanic, probably = peace-protector]
Belial n. the Devil. [Hebrew, = worthless]
belie v. (belying) 1 give a false impression of (its appearance belies its age). 2 fail to fulfil or justify. [Old English: related to *be-]
belief n. 1 firm opinion; acceptance (that is my belief). 2 religious conviction (belief in the afterlife; has no belief). 3 (usu. foll. by in) trust or confidence. [related to *believe]
believe v. (-ving) 1 accept as true or as conveying the truth (I believe it; don't believe him). 2 think, suppose. 3 (foll. by in) a have faith in the existence of (believes in God). b have confidence in (believes in homoeopathy). c have trust in as a policy (believes in telling the truth). 4 have (esp. religious) faith. believable adj. believer n. [Old English]
Belisha beacon n. flashing orange ball on a striped post, marking some pedestrian crossings. [Hore-Belisha, who introduced it]
belittle v. (-ling) disparage, make appear insignificant. belittlement n.
bell1 -n. 1 hollow esp. cup-shaped usu. metal object sounding a note when struck. 2 such a sound, esp. as a signal. 3 thing resembling a bell, esp. in sound or shape. -v. provide with a bell. give a person a bell colloq. telephone a person. [Old English]
bell2 -n. cry of a stag. -v. make this cry. [Old English]
belladonna n. 1 deadly nightshade. 2 drug from this. [Italian, = fair lady]
bell-bottom n. 1 marked flare below the knee (of a trouser-leg). 2 (in pl.) trousers with these. bell-bottomed adj.
Belladonna
Belladonna, also known as "deadly nightshade", common name for an Old World herb (see Nightshade), and for a crude drug obtained from the plant. Belladonna is a biennial or annual plant with large simple leaves and bell-shaped flowers. The flower tube is five-pointed, dull purple or red-purple, and surrounded by five green sepals. The fruit is a single green berry that becomes purple to black with maturity.
Belladonna is occasionally grown in gardens in North America but rarely becomes naturalized. It does not normally persist without cultivation. Other members of the nightshade family are sometimes erroneously called belladonna. All parts of the true belladonna are poisonous and narcotic. The leaves and root contain alkaloids; one, atropine, is used to dilate the pupils of the eyes, to facilitate eye examinations and as an antispasmodic in the treatment of asthma. In earlier times in Italy, extracts of belladonna were used by women for the cosmetic value of this dilating effect; such use explains the origin of the common name (Italian, "beautiful woman").
Scientific classification: Belladonna belongs to the family Solanaceae. It is classified as Atropa belladonna.
Microsoft ® Encarta ® Reference Library 2003. © 1993-2002 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
Nightshade
Nightshade, common name for both a family of plants, and for a genus of mostly weedy plants. The family has about 90 genera and 2600 species and includes crop and garden plants-such as potato, tomato, petunia, tobacco, and eggplant-as well as many poisonous plants. The poisonous nightshades contain alkaloids of three major types: tropane, found in belladonna, jimsonweed, and henbane; pyridine, in tobacco; and steroid, in some members of the nightshade genus.
Included in the nightshade genus are such common weeds as horse nettle, a spiny, perennial herb of the south-central to eastern United States; European bittersweet; silverleaf nightshade, a whitish herb of prairies of the southwestern states and Mexico; black nightshade, an annual, self-seeding herb found in disturbed soils of eastern and central North America; and buffalo bur, a spiny weed of the Great Plains and eastward. Also in this genus are the common potato, eggplant, and Jerusalem cherry.
Plants in the nightshade family bear flowers with five sepals, five petals, five stamens, and a solitary pistil that in most species ripens into a berry. In horse nettle, the flowers are white or pale violet, and the berry, yellow; in European bittersweet, the flowers are blue or purple, and the berry, red; in silverleaf nightshade, the flowers are violet or blue and yellow, and the berry, orange; and in black nightshade, the flowers are white, and the berry, black. Buffalo bur has yellow flowers and a spiny fruit or bur resulting from the persistence of the spiny calyx about the berry as it ripens.
The foliage and unripe fruit of most nightshades contain dangerous levels of a steroid alkaloid, solanine. The ripe berries are the least toxic part of these plants but may be deadly under some circumstances. Solanine is also found in potato sprouts and the green spots of some potatoes. A toxic dose of any of these will usually result in severe digestive upset. This may be accompanied by trembling, weakness, difficulty in breathing, or paralysis. Potato sprouts should be removed before using the tubers for food. Potato vines, sprouts, and rotten potatoes should not be used as forage for livestock.
The members of the nightshade family are placed in a medium-size order that includes many attractive spring and summer garden plants. The order is widely distributed, with concentrations of species in the Americas. It contains 8 families and nearly 5000 species. Plants of the order vary greatly in habit, from herbs to trees, and some of them are parasites. The flowers are basically five-parted. The petals are fused into a tube, on the inside of which are borne the stamens.
The morning glory family, with about 1650 species, is a well-known member of the order and contains important food, drug, and horticultural plants. The sweet potato, a member of the morning glory family, is cultivated worldwide; its nutritious tuberous root has been used as a food source since prehistoric times. Other members of the same genus have chemicals similar to LSD (see Lysergic Acid Diethylamide). Still other species of this and other genera provide garden ornamentals, such as the morning glory. The phlox family, which contains about 300 species, provides such ornamentals as Jacob's ladder and the common annual phlox, native to Texas. The mostly herbaceous waterleaf family also contains about 250 species.
Scientific classification: Nightshades make up the genus Solanum, and the family Solanaceae, in the order Solanales. Horse nettle is classified as Solanum carolinense, European bittersweet as Solanum dulcamara, silverleaf nightshade as Solanum elaeagnifolium, and black nightshade as Solanum nigrum. Buffalo bur is classified as Solanum rostratum, the common potato as Solanum tuberosum, the eggplant as Solanum melongena, and the Jerusalem cherry as Solanum pseudocapsicum. The sweet potato, classified as Ipomoea batatas, and the morning glory, classified as Ipomoea purpurea, belong to the family Convolvulaceae. Jacob's ladder, classified in the genus Polemonium, and the common annual phlox, classified as Phlox drummondii, belong to the family Polemoniaceae.
Microsoft ® Encarta ® Reference Library 2003. © 1993-2002 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
bellboy n. esp. US page in a hotel or club.
belle n. beautiful or most beautiful woman. [French, feminine of *beau]
belles-lettres n.pl. (also treated as sing.) literary writings or studies. [French, = fine letters]
bellicose adj. eager to fight; warlike. [Latin bellum war]
belligerence n. 1 aggressive behaviour. 2 status of a belligerent.
belligerent -adj. 1 engaged in war or conflict. 2 pugnacious. -n. belligerent nation or person. [Latin belligero wage war]
bell-jar n. bell-shaped glass cover or container for use in a laboratory.
bellow -v. 1 emit a deep loud roar. 2 utter loudly. -n. loud roar. [origin uncertain]
bellows n.pl. (also treated as sing.) 1 device for driving air into or through something. 2 expandable part, e.g. of a camera. [related to *belly]
bell-pull n. handle etc. sounding a bell when pulled.
bell-push n. button operating an electric bell.
bell-ringer n. ringer of church bells or handbells. bell-ringing n.
bell-wether n. 1 leading sheep of a flock. 2 ringleader.
belly -n. (pl. -ies) 1 trunk below the chest, containing the stomach and bowels. 2 stomach. 3 front of the body from waist to groin. 4 underside of an animal. 5 cavity or bulging part. -v. (-ies, -ied) (often foll. by out) swell; bulge. [Old English, = bag]
bellyache -n. colloq. stomach pain. -v. (-ching) slang complain noisily or persistently.
belly button n. colloq. navel.
belly-dance n. oriental dance performed by a woman, with voluptuous belly movements. belly-dancer n. belly-dancing n.
bellyflop n. colloq. dive with the belly landing flat on the water.
bellyful n. (pl. -s) 1 enough to eat. 2 colloq. more than one can tolerate.
belly-laugh n. loud unrestrained laugh.
belong v. 1 (foll. by to) a be the property of. b be correctly assigned to. c be a member of. 2 fit socially (just doesn't belong). 3 (foll. by in, under) be correctly placed or classified. [from *be-, obsolete long belong]
belongings n.pl. possessions or luggage.
Belorussian var. of *Byelorussian.
beloved -adj. much loved. -n. much loved person.
below -prep. 1 lower in position, amount, status, etc., than. 2 beneath the surface of (head below water). 3 unworthy of. -adv. 1 at or to a lower point or level. 2 downstream. 3 further forward on a page or in a book (as noted below). [be- *by, *low1]
belt -n. 1 strip of leather etc. worn esp. round the waist. 2 circular band in machinery; conveyor belt. 3 distinct strip of colour etc. 4 region or extent (cotton belt). 5 slang heavy blow. -v. 1 put a belt round; fasten with a belt. 2 slang hit hard. 3 slang rush, hurry. below the belt unfair(ly). belt out slang sing or play (music) loudly or vigorously. belt up 1 slang be quiet. 2 colloq. put on a seat belt. tighten one's belt economize. under one's belt securely acquired. [Old English]
beluga n. (pl. same or -s) 1 a large kind of sturgeon. b caviare from it. 2 white whale. [Russian]
belvedere n. raised summer-house or gallery for viewing scenery. [Italian, = beautiful view]
BEM abbr. British Empire Medal.
bemoan v. lament; complain about.
bemuse v. (-sing) puzzle, bewilder. [from *be-, *muse1]
bench n. 1 long seat of wood or stone. 2 strong work-table. 3 (prec. by the) a judge's seat. b lawcourt. c judges and magistrates collectively. [Old English]
bencher n. senior member of an Inn of Court.
benchmark n. 1 surveyor's mark cut in a wall etc. as a reference point in measuring altitudes. 2 standard or point of reference.
bend1 -v. (past and past part. bent except in bended knee) 1 a force or adapt (something straight) into a curve or angle. b (of an object) be so altered. 2 (often foll. by down, over, etc.) curve, incline, or stoop (road bends; bent down to pick it up; bent her head). 3 interpret or modify (a rule) to suit oneself. 4 turn (one's steps, eyes, or energies) in a new direction. 5 be flexible, submit, or force to submit. -n. 1 curve; departure from a straight course. 2 bent part. 3 (in pl.; prec. by the) colloq. decompression sickness. bend over backwards see *backwards. round the bend colloq. crazy, insane. bendy adj. (-ier, -iest). [Old English]
bend2 n. 1 any of various knots. 2 Heraldry diagonal stripe from top right to bottom left of a shield (from its wearer's position). [Old English: related to *bind]
bender n. slang wild drinking-spree. [from *bend1]
bend sinister n. Heraldry diagonal stripe from top left to bottom right of a shield, as a sign of bastardy.
beneath -prep. 1 unworthy of (beneath him to reply). 2 below, under. -adv. below, underneath. [Old English: related to *be-, *nether]
Benedictine -n. 1 monk or nun of an order following the rule of St Benedict. 2 propr. liqueur orig. made by Benedictines. -adj. of St Benedict or the Benedictines. [Latin Benedictus Benedict]
benediction n. blessing, esp. at the end of a religious service or as a special Roman Catholic service. benedictory adj. [Latin benedico bless]
benefaction n. 1 donation, gift. 2 giving or doing good. [Latin: related to *benefit]
benefactor n. (fem. benefactress) person giving (esp. financial) support.
benefice n. a living from a church office.
beneficent adj. doing good; generous, kind. beneficence n.
beneficial adj. advantageous; having benefits. beneficially adv.
beneficiary n. (pl. -ies) 1 person who benefits, esp. from a will. 2 holder of a benefice.
benefit -n. 1 favourable or helpful factor etc. 2 (often in pl.) insurance or social security payment (sickness benefit). 3 public performance or game in aid of a charitable cause etc. -v. (-t-; US -tt-) 1 help; bring advantage to. 2 (often foll. by from, by) receive benefit. the benefit of the doubt concession that a person is innocent, correct, etc., although doubt exists. [Latin benefactum from bene well, facio do]
benevolent adj. 1 well-wishing; actively friendly and helpful. 2 charitable (benevolent fund). benevolence n. [French from Latin bene volens well wishing]
Bengali -n. (pl. -s) 1 native of Bengal. 2 language of Bengal. -adj. of Bengal, its people, or language. [Bengal, former Indian province]
benighted adj. intellectually or morally ignorant.
benign adj. 1 gentle, mild, kindly. 2 fortunate, salutary. 3 (of a tumour etc.) not malignant. benignly adv. [Latin benignus]
benignant adj. 1 kindly, esp. to inferiors. 2 salutary, beneficial. benignancy n.
benignity n. (pl. -ies) kindliness.
bent1 past and past part. of *bend1 v. -adj. 1 curved, angular. 2 slang dishonest, illicit. 3 slang sexually deviant. 4 (foll. by on) set on doing or having. -n. 1 inclination or bias. 2 (foll. by for) talent.
bent2 n. 1 reedy grass with stiff stems. 2 stiff flower stalk of a grass. [Old English]
bentwood n. wood artificially shaped for making furniture.
benumb v. 1 make numb; deaden. 2 paralyse (the mind or feelings).
benzene n. colourless liquid found in coal tar and used as a volatile solvent etc. [as *benzoin]
benzine n. mixture of liquid hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum.
benzoin n. fragrant gum resin from an E. Asian tree. benzoic adj. [ultimately from Arabic luban jawi incense of Java]
benzol n. benzene, esp. unrefined.
bequeath v. 1 leave to a person in a will. 2 hand down to posterity. [from *be-: related to *quoth]
bequest n. 1 bequeathing; bestowal by will. 2 thing bequeathed. [from *be-, obsolete quiste saying]
berate v. (-ting) scold, rebuke.
berate v. (-ting) scold, rebuke.
Berber -n. 1 member of the indigenous mainly Muslim Caucasian peoples of N. Africa. 2 language of these peoples. -adj. of the Berbers or their language. [Arabic]
berceuse n. (pl. -s pronunc. same) 1 lullaby. 2 instrumental piece in this style. [French]
bereave v. (-ving) (esp. as bereaved adj.) (often foll. by of) deprive of a relation, friend, etc., esp. by death. bereavement n. [Old English, from reave deprive of]
bereft adj. (foll. by of) deprived (bereft of hope). [past part. of *bereave]
beret n. round flattish brimless cap of felt etc. [French: related to *biretta]
berg n. = *iceberg. [abbreviation]
bergamot1 n. 1 perfume from the fruit of a dwarf orange tree. 2 aromatic herb. [Bergamo in Italy]
bergamot2 n. variety of fine pear. [Turkish, = prince's pear]
beriberi n. nervous disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin B1. [Sinhalese]
berk n. (also burk) slang stupid person. [Berkshire Hunt, rhyming slang for cunt]
berkelium n. artificial radioactive metallic element. [Berkeley in US, where first made]
Bermuda shorts n.pl. (also Bermudas) close-fitting knee-length shorts. [Bermuda in the W. Atlantic]
berry n. (pl. -ies) 1 any small roundish juicy stoneless fruit. 2 Bot. fruit with its seeds enclosed in pulp (e.g. a banana or tomato). [Old English]
berserk adj. (esp. in go berserk) wild, frenzied; in a rage. [originally = Norse warrior: Icelandic, = bear-coat]
berth -n. 1 bunk on a ship, train, etc. 2 place for a ship to moor or be at anchor. 3 adequate room for a ship. 4 colloq. job. -v. 1 moor (a ship); be moored. 2 provide a sleeping place for. give a wide berth to stay away from. [probably from a special use of *bear1]
beryl n. 1 transparent precious stone, esp. pale green. 2 mineral species including this, emerald, and aquamarine. [Greek berullos]
beryllium n. hard white metallic element.
beseech v. (past and past part. besought or beseeched) 1 (foll. by for, or to + infin.) entreat. 2 ask earnestly for. [from *be-, *seek]
beset v. (-tt-; past and past part. beset) 1 attack or harass persistently (beset by worries). 2 surround (a person etc.). [Old English: related to *be-]
beside prep. 1 at the side of; near. 2 compared with. 3 irrelevant to (beside the point). beside oneself frantic with worry etc. [Old English: related to *by, *side]
besides -prep. in addition to; apart from. -adv. also; moreover.
besiege v. (-ging) 1 lay siege to. 2 crowd round eagerly. 3 harass with requests.
besmirch v. 1 soil, discolour. 2 dishonour.
besom n. broom of twigs. [Old English]
besotted adj. 1 infatuated. 2 intoxicated, stupefied.
besought past and past part. of *beseech.
bespangle v. (-ling) adorn with spangles.
bespatter v. 1 spatter all over. 2 slander, defame.
bespeak v. (past bespoke; past part. bespoken or as adj. bespoke) 1 engage in advance. 2 order (goods). 3 suggest; be evidence of.
bespectacled adj. wearing spectacles.
bespoke past and past part. of *bespeak. -adj. 1 made to order. 2 making goods to order.
bespoken past part. of *bespeak.
best -adj. (superl. of *good) of the most excellent or desirable kind. -adv. (superl. of *well1). 1 in the best manner. 2 to the greatest degree. 3 most usefully (is best ignored). -n. 1 that which is best (the best is yet to come). 2 chief merit or advantage (brings out the best in him). 3 (foll. by of) winning majority of (games played etc.) (the best of five). 4 one's best clothes. -v. colloq. defeat, outwit, outbid, etc. at best on the most optimistic view. best bib and tucker one's best clothes. the best part of most of. do one's best do all one can. get the best of defeat, outwit. had best would find it wisest to. make the best of derive what limited advantage one can from. [Old English]
bestial adj. 1 brutish, cruel. 2 of or like a beast. [Latin: related to *beast]
bestial
/ 5bestIEl; ?@ 5bestFEl; `bZstFEl/ adj (derog ¦S) of or like a beast; brutish; cruel ¦Ñ+~¬¦; ¦Ñ+~"_¬¦; ¦Ñ¦Z¬¦; ¦¦º+¬¦: a bestial person, act ¦Ñ¦Z¬¦ñHíN _-º@ * bestial violence, lust, fury ¦Ñ+~"_¬¦Ñ__ríN +ñ_µíN ¿g++.
> bestiality / 9bestI5lEtI; ?@ 9bestFI-; 9bZstFI`AlEtI/ n 1 [U] (a) quality of being bestial +~_-; +~ªµ: an act of horrifying bestiality Ñi_+¬¦+~ªµ. (b) sexual activity between a human and an animal +~½-í]ñH+~ñº¦í¬¦_-ªµ¼_í^. 2 [C] brutal act, esp of a sexually perverted kind +~_-¬¦ªµ¼_; í]ñ+½ní^_-+_¦A.
bestially adv.
bestiality n. 1 bestial behaviour. 2 sexual intercourse between a person and an animal.
bestiary n. (pl. -ies) medieval treatise on beasts. [medieval Latin: related to *beast]
bestir v.refl. (-rr-) exert or rouse oneself.
best man n. bridegroom's chief attendant.
bestow v. (foll. by on, upon) confer (a gift, right, etc.). bestowal n. [Old English stow a place]
bestrew v. (past part. bestrewed or bestrewn) 1 (usu. foll. by with) strew (a surface). 2 lie scattered over.
bestride v. (-ding; past -strode; past part. -stridden) 1 sit astride on. 2 stand astride over.
best seller n. 1 book etc. sold in large numbers. 2 author of such a book.
bet -v. (-tt-; past and past part. bet or betted) 1 risk a sum of money on the result of a race, contest, etc. (I don't bet on horses). 2 risk (a sum) thus, or risk (a sum) against (a person) (bet £10 on a horse; he bet me £10 I'd lose). 3 colloq. feel sure. -n. 1 act of betting (make a bet). 2 money etc. staked (put a bet on). 3 colloq. opinion (that's my bet). 4 colloq. choice or possibility (she's our best bet). you bet colloq. you may be sure. [origin uncertain]
beta n. 1 second letter of the Greek alphabet (B, b). 2 second-class mark for a piece of work etc. [Latin from Greek]
beta blocker n. drug preventing unwanted stimulation of the heart, used to treat angina and high blood pressure.
betake v.refl. (-king; past betook; past part. betaken) (foll. by to) go to (a place or person).
beta particle n. fast-moving electron emitted by the radioactive decay of substances.
betatron n. apparatus for accelerating electrons in a circular path. [from *beta, *electron]
betel n. leaf chewed in the East with the betel-nut. [Portuguese from Malayalam]
betel-nut n. seed of a tropical palm.
bête noire n. (pl. bêtes noires pronunc. same) person or thing one hates or fears. [French, literally = 'black beast']
bethink v.refl. (past and past part. bethought) formal 1 reflect; stop to think. 2 be reminded by reflection. [Old English: related to *be-]
betide v. woe betide a person used as a warning (woe betide us if we fail). [from *be-, tide befall]
betimes adv. literary early, in good time. [related to *by]
betoken v. be a sign of; indicate. [Old English: related to *be-]
betony n. (pl. -ies) purple-flowered plant. [French from Latin]
betook past of *betake.
betray v. 1 be disloyal or treacherous to (a friend, one's country, a person's trust, etc.). 2 reveal involuntarily or treacherously; be evidence of. 3 lead astray. betrayal n. [from *be-, obsolete tray from Latin trado hand over]
betroth v. (usu. as betrothed adj.) engage to marry. betrothal n. [from *be-, *truth]
better -adj. (compar. of *good). 1 of a more excellent or desirable kind. 2 partly or fully recovered from illness (feeling better). -adv. (compar. of *well1). 1 in a better manner. 2 to a greater degree. 3 more usefully (is better forgotten). -n. 1 better thing etc. (the better of the two). 2 (in pl.) one's superiors. -v. 1 improve on; surpass. 2 improve. 3 refl. improve one's position etc. the better part of most of. get the better of defeat, outwit. had better would find it prudent to. [Old English]
better half n. colloq. one's spouse.
betterment n. improvement.
better off adj. 1 in a better situation. 2 having more money.
betting n. 1 gambling by risking money on an unpredictable outcome. 2 odds offered on this. what's the betting? colloq. it is likely or to be expected (what's the betting he'll be late?).
betting-shop n. bookmaker's shop or office.
between -prep. 1 a at a point in the area bounded by two or more other points in space, time, etc. (between London and Dover; between now and Friday). b along the extent of such an area (no shops between here and the centre; numbers between 10 and 20). 2 separating (difference between right and wrong). 3 a shared by (£5 between us). b by joint action (agreement between us). 4 to and from (runs between London and Oxford). 5 taking one of (choose between them). -adv. (also in between) at a point or in the area bounded by two or more other points (not fat or thin but in between). between ourselves (or you and me) in confidence. [Old English: related to *by, *two]
betwixt adv. betwixt and between colloq. neither one thing nor the other. [Old English]
bevel -n. 1 slope from the horizontal or vertical in carpentry etc.; sloping surface or edge. 2 tool for marking angles. -v. (-ll-; US -l-) 1 reduce (a square edge) to a sloping edge. 2 slope at an angle. [French]
bevel gear n. gear working another at an angle to it.
beverage n. formal drink. [Latin bibo drink]
bevy n. (pl. -ies) company (of quails, larks, women, etc.). [origin unknown]
bewail v. lament; wail over.
beware v. (only in imper. or infin.; often foll. by of) be cautious (of) (beware of the dog; beware the Ides of March). [from *be, ware cautious]
bewilder v. perplex, confuse. bewildering adj. bewilderment n. [from *be-, obsolete wilder lose one's way]
bewitch v. 1 enchant. 2 cast a spell on.
beyond -prep. 1 at or to the further side of. 2 outside the scope or understanding of (beyond repair; it is beyond me). 3 more than. -adv. 1 at or to the further side. 2 further on. -n. (prec. by the) the unknown after death. [Old English: related to *by, *yon]
bezel n. 1 sloped edge of a chisel. 2 oblique faces of a cut gem. 3 groove holding a watch-glass or gem. [French]
bezique n. card-game for two. [French]
b.f. abbr. 1 colloq. bloody fool. 2 brought forward.
bhang n. Indian hemp used as a narcotic. [Portuguese from Sanskrit]
b.h.p. abbr. brake horsepower.
Bi symb. bismuth.
bi- comb. form forming nouns, adjectives, and verbs, meaning: 1 division into two (biplane; bisect). 2 a occurring twice in every one or once in every two (bi-weekly). b lasting for two (biennial). 3 Chem. substance having a double proportion of what is indicated by the simple word (bicarbonate). 4 Bot. & Zool. having divided parts which are themselves similarly divided (bipinnate). [Latin]
biannual adj. occurring etc. twice a year.
bias -n. 1 (often foll. by towards, against) predisposition or prejudice. 2 Statistics distortion of a statistical result due to a neglected factor. 3 edge cut obliquely across the weave of a fabric. 4 Sport a irregular shape given to a bowl. b oblique course this causes it to run. -v. (-s- or -ss-) 1 (esp. as biased adj.) influence (usu. unfairly); prejudice. 2 give a bias to. on the bias obliquely, diagonally. [French]
bias binding n. strip of fabric cut obliquely and used to bind edges.
biathlon n. athletic contest in skiing and shooting or cycling and running. [from *bi-, after *pentathlon]
bib n. 1 piece of cloth etc. fastened round a child's neck while eating. 2 top front part of an apron, dungarees, etc. [origin uncertain]
bib-cock n. tap with a bent nozzle. [perhaps from *bib]
Bible n. 1 a (prec. by the) Christian scriptures of Old and New Testaments. b (bible) copy of these. 2 (bible) colloq. authoritative book. biblical adj. [Greek biblia books]
Bible-bashing n. (also Bible-thumping) slang aggressive fundamentalist preaching. Bible-basher n. (also -thumper).
bibliography n. (pl. -ies) 1 list of books on a specific subject, by a particular author, etc.; book containing this. 2 the study of books, their authorship, editions, etc. bibliographer n. bibliographical adj. [Greek: related to *Bible]
bibliophile n. lover or collector of books.
bibulous adj. tending to drink alcohol. [Latin bibo drink]
bicameral adj. (of a legislative body) having two chambers. [from *bi-, Latin camera chamber]
bicarb n. colloq. = *bicarbonate 2. [abbreviation]
bicarbonate n. 1 any acid salt of carbonic acid. 2 (in full bicarbonate of soda) sodium bicarbonate used as an antacid or in baking-powder.
bicentenary n. (pl. -ies) 1 two-hundredth anniversary. 2 celebration of this.
bicentennial esp. US -n. bicentenary. -adj. occurring every two hundred years.
biceps n. (pl. same) muscle with two heads or attachments, esp. that bending the elbow. [Latin caput head]
bicker v. argue pettily. [origin unknown]
bicuspid -adj. having two cusps. -n. the premolar tooth in humans. [from *bi-, *cusp]
bicycle -n. pedal-driven two-wheeled vehicle. -v. (-ling) ride a bicycle. [Greek kuklos wheel]
bid -v. (-dd-; past bid, archaic bade; past part. bid, archaic bidden) 1 (past and past part. bid) a (esp. at an auction) make an offer (of) (bid for the vase; bid £20). b offer a service for a stated price. 2 literary command; invite (bid the soldiers shoot; bade her start). 3 literary utter (a greeting or farewell) to (I bade him welcome). 4 (past and past part. bid) Cards state before play how many tricks one intends to make. -n. 1 act of bidding. 2 amount bid. 3 colloq. attempt; effort (bid for power). bidder n. [Old English]
biddable adj. obedient.
bidding n. 1 command, request, or invitation. 2 bids at an auction or in a card-game.
biddy n. (pl. -ies) slang woman (esp. old biddy). [a form of the name Bridget]
bide v. (-ding) bide one's time wait for a good opportunity. [Old English]
bidet n. low basin for sitting on to wash the genital area. [French, = pony]
biennial -adj. lasting, or recurring every, two years. -n. plant that grows from seed one year and flowers and dies the following. [Latin annus year]
bier n. movable frame on which a coffin or corpse rests. [Old English]
biff slang -n. sharp blow. -v. strike (a person). [imitative]
bifid adj. divided by a deep cleft into two parts. [Latin findo cleave]
bifocal -adj. having two focuses, esp. of a lens with a part for distant and a part for near vision. -n. (in pl.) bifocal spectacles.
bifurcate -v. (-ting) fork. -adj. forked; branched. bifurcation n. [Latin furca fork]
big -adj. (bigger, biggest) 1 a of considerable size, amount, intensity, etc. b of a large or the largest size (big toe). 2 important (my big day). 3 adult, elder (big sister). 4 colloq. a boastful (big words). b often iron. generous (big of him). c ambitious (big ideas). 5 (usu. foll. by with) advanced in pregnancy (big with child). -adv. colloq. impressively or grandly (think big). in a big way colloq. with great enthusiasm, display, etc. biggish adj. [origin unknown]
bigamy n. (pl. -ies) crime of marrying while still married to another person. bigamist n. bigamous adj. [Greek gamos marriage]
Big Apple n. US slang New York City.
big bang theory n. theory that the universe began with the explosion of dense matter.
Big Brother n. supposedly benevolent watchful dictator.
big end n. (in a vehicle) end of the connecting-rod, encircling the crankpin.
big-head n. colloq. conceited person. big-headed adj.
big-hearted adj. generous.
bight n. 1 bay, inlet, etc. 2 loop of rope. [Old English]
big money n. large amounts of money.
big noise n. (also big shot) colloq. = *bigwig.
bigot n. obstinate believer who is intolerant of others. bigoted adj. bigotry n. [French]
big stick n. colloq. display of force.
big time n. (prec. by the) slang success, esp. in show business. big-timer n.
big top n. main tent in a circus.
big wheel n. Ferris wheel.
bigwig n. colloq. important person.
bijou -n. (pl. -x pronunc. same) jewel; trinket. -attrib. adj. (bijou) small and elegant. [French]
bike colloq. -n. bicycle or motor cycle. -v. (-king) ride a bike. biker n. [abbreviation]
bikini n. (pl. -s) two-piece swimsuit for women. [Bikini, Pacific atoll]
bilateral adj. 1 of, on, or with two sides. 2 affecting or between two parties, countries, etc. bilaterally adv.
bilberry n. (pl. -ies) 1 hardy N. European shrub of heaths and mountains. 2 its small dark-blue edible berry. [Scandinavian]
bile n. 1 bitter digestive fluid secreted by the liver. 2 bad temper; peevish anger. [Latin bilis]
bilge n. 1 a the almost flat part of a ship's bottom. b (in full bilge-water) filthy water that collects there. 2 slang nonsense. [probably var. of *bulge]
bilharzia n. chronic tropical disease caused by a parasitic flatworm. [Bilharz, name of a physician]
biliary adj. of the bile. [French: related to *bile]
bilingual -adj. 1 able to speak two languages. 2 spoken or written in two languages. -n. bilingual person. bilingualism n. [Latin lingua tongue]
bilious adj. 1 affected by a disorder of the bile. 2 bad-tempered. [Latin: related to *bile]
bilk v. slang 1 cheat. 2 elude. 3 avoid paying (a creditor or debt). [origin uncertain]
Bill n. slang = *Old Bill. [diminutive of William]
bill1 -n. 1 statement of charges for goods or services. 2 draft of a proposed law. 3 poster, placard. 4 programme of entertainment. 5 US banknote. -v. 1 send a statement of charges to. 2 put in the programme; announce. 3 (foll. by as) advertise as. [medieval Latin bulla seal]
bill2 -n. 1 bird's beak. 2 narrow promontory. -v. (of doves etc.) stroke bills. bill and coo exchange caresses. [Old English]
bill3 n. 1 hist. weapon with a hooked blade. 2 = *billhook. [Old English]
billabong n. (in Australia) backwater of a river. [Aboriginal]
billboard n. large outdoor advertising hoarding.
billet1 -n. 1 a place where troops etc. are lodged. b order to provide this. 2 colloq. job. -v. (-t-) (usu. foll. by on, in, at) quarter (soldiers etc.). [Anglo-French diminutive of *bill1]
billet2 n. 1 thick piece of firewood. 2 small metal bar. [French diminutive of bille tree-trunk]
billet-doux n. (pl. billets-doux) often joc. love-letter. [French, = sweet note]
billhook n. pruning tool with a hooked blade.
billiards n. 1 game played on a table, with three balls struck with cues. 2 (billiard) (in comb.) used in billiards (billiard-ball). [French: related to *billet2]
billion adj. & n. (pl. same or (in sense 3) -s) 1 a thousand million (109). 2 (now less often) a million million (1012). 3 (in pl.) colloq. a very large number (billions of years). billionth adj. & n. [French]
billionaire n. person who has over a billion pounds, dollars, etc. [after *millionaire]
bill of exchange n. written order to pay a sum of money on a given date to the drawer or to a named payee.
bill of fare n. menu.
bill of lading n. detailed list of a ship's cargo.
billow -n. 1 wave. 2 any large mass. -v. rise, fill, or surge in billows. billowy adj. [Old Norse]
billposter n. (also billsticker) person who pastes up advertisements on hoardings.
billy1 n. (pl. -ies) (in full billycan) Austral. tin or enamel outdoor cooking-pot. [perhaps from Aboriginal billa water]
billy2 n. (pl. -ies) (in full billy-goat) male goat. [from the name Billy]
bimbo n. (pl. -s or -es) slang usu. derog. attractive but unintelligent young woman. [Italian, = little child]
bimetallic adj. using or made of two metals. [French]
bin n. large receptacle for rubbish or storage. [Old English]
binary -adj. 1 of two parts, dual. 2 of the binary system. -n. (pl. -ies) 1 something having two parts. 2 binary number. [Latin bini two together]
binary star n. system of two stars orbiting each other.
binary system n. system using the digits 0 and 1 to code information, esp. in computing.
binaural adj. 1 of or used with both ears. 2 (of sound) recorded using two microphones and usu. transmitted separately to the two ears. [from *bi-, *aural]
bind -v. (past and past part. bound) 1 tie or fasten tightly. 2 restrain forcibly. 3 (cause to) cohere. 4 compel; impose a duty on. 5 a edge with braid etc. b fasten (the pages of a book) in a cover. 6 constipate. 7 ratify (a bargain, agreement, etc.). 8 (often foll. by up) bandage. -n. colloq. nuisance; restriction. bind over Law order (a person) to do something, esp. keep the peace. [Old English]
binder n. 1 cover for loose papers etc. 2 substance that binds things together. 3 hist. reaping-machine that binds grain into sheaves. 4 bookbinder.
bindery n. (pl. -ies) bookbinder's workshop.
binding -n. thing that binds, esp. the covers, glue, etc., of a book. -adj. obligatory.
bindweed n. 1 convolvulus. 2 honeysuckle or other climber.
bine n. 1 twisting stem of a climbing plant, esp. the hop. 2 flexible shoot. [dial. form of *bind]
bin end n. one of the last bottles from a bin of wine, usu. sold at a reduced price.
binge slang -n. bout of excessive eating, drinking, etc.; spree. -v. (-ging) indulge in a binge. [probably dial., = soak]
bingo n. gambling game in which each player has a card with numbers to be marked off as they are called. [origin uncertain]
bin-liner n. bag for lining a rubbish bin.
binman n. colloq. dustman.
binnacle n. case for a ship's compass. [Latin habitaculum dwelling]
binocular adj. for both eyes. [Latin bini two together, oculus eye]
binoculars n.pl. instrument with a lens for each eye, for viewing distant objects.
binomial -n. algebraic expression of the sum or the difference of two terms. -adj. of two terms. [Greek nomos part]
binomial theorem n. formula for finding any power of a binomial.
bint n. slang, usu. offens. girl or woman. [Arabic]
bio- comb. form 1 life (biography). 2 biological; of living things. [Greek bios life]
biochemistry n. the study of the chemistry of living organisms. biochemical adj. biochemist n.
biodegradable adj. capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.
bioengineering n. 1 the application of engineering techniques to biological processes. 2 the use of artificial tissues, organs, etc. to replace parts of the body, e.g. artificial limbs, pacemakers, etc.
biogenesis n. 1 hypothesis that a living organism arises only from a similar living organism. 2 synthesis of substances by living organisms.
biography n. (pl. -ies) 1 account of a person's life, written usu. by another. 2 these as a literary genre. biographer n. biographical adj. [French: related to *bio-]
biological adj. of biology or living organisms. biologically adv.
biological clock n. innate mechanism controlling an organism's rhythmic physiological activities.
biological warfare n. use of toxins or micro-organisms against an enemy.
biology n. the study of living organisms. biologist n. [German: related to *bio-]
bionic adj. having electronically operated body parts or the resulting superhuman powers. [from *bio- after *electronic]
bionics n.pl. (treated as sing.) the study of mechanical systems that function like living organisms.
biophysics n.pl. (treated as sing.) science of the application of the laws of physics to biological phenomena. biophysical adj. biophysicist n.
biopsy n. (pl. -ies) examination of severed tissue for diagnosis. [Greek bios life, opsis sight]
biorhythm n. any recurring biological cycle thought to affect one's physical or mental state.
biosphere n. regions of the earth's crust and atmosphere occupied by living things. [German: related to *bio-]
biosynthesis n. production of organic molecules by living organisms. biosynthetic adj.
biosynthesis n. production of organic molecules by living organisms. biosynthetic adj.
biotechnology n. branch of technology exploiting biological processes, esp. using micro-organisms, in industry, medicine, etc.
biotin n. vitamin of the B complex, found in egg-yolk, liver, and yeast. [Greek bios life]
bipartisan adj. of or involving two parties.
bipartite adj. 1 of two parts. 2 shared by or involving two parties. [Latin bipartio divide in two]
biped -n. two-footed animal. -adj. two-footed. bipedal adj. [Latin bipes -edis]
biplane n. aeroplane with two sets of wings, one above the other.
bipolar adj. having two poles or extremities.
birch -n. 1 tree with pale hard wood and thin peeling bark, bearing catkins. 2 bundle of birch twigs used for flogging. -v. beat with a birch. [Old English]
bird n. 1 two-legged feathered winged vertebrate, egg-laying and usu. able to fly. 2 slang young woman. 3 slang person. 4 slang prison; prison sentence. a bird in the hand something secured or certain. the birds and the bees euphem. sexual activity and reproduction. birds of a feather similar people. for the birds colloq. trivial, uninteresting. get the bird slang be rejected, esp. by an audience. [Old English]
bird-bath n. basin with water for birds to bathe in.
birdbrain n. colloq. stupid or flighty person. birdbrained adj.
birdcage n. cage for birds.
birdie n. 1 colloq. little bird. 2 Golf hole played in one under par.
birdlime n. sticky substance spread to trap birds.
bird-nesting n. hunting for birds' eggs.
bird of paradise n. bird, the male of which has brilliant plumage.
bird of passage n. 1 migrant. 2 habitual traveller.
bird of prey n. bird which hunts animals for food.
birdseed n. blend of seeds for caged birds.
bird's-eye view n. detached view from above.
birdsong n. musical cry of birds.
bird table n. platform on which food for birds is placed.
bird-watcher n. person who observes wild birds as a hobby. bird-watching n.
biretta n. square usu. black cap worn by Roman Catholic priests. [Latin birrus cape]
Biro n. (pl. -s) propr. a kind of ball-point pen. [Biró, name of its inventor]
birth n. 1 emergence of a baby or young from its mother's body. 2 beginning (birth of civilization). 3 a ancestry (of noble birth). b high or noble birth; inherited position. give birth to 1 produce (young). 2 be the cause of. [Old Norse]
birth certificate n. official document detailing a person's birth.
birth control n. contraception.
birthday n. 1 day on which one was born. 2 anniversary of this.
birthing pool n. large bath for giving birth in.
birthmark n. unusual coloured mark on one's body at or from birth.
birthplace n. place where one was born.
birth rate n. number of live births per thousand of population per year.
birthright n. inherited, esp. property, rights.
birthstone n. gem popularly associated with the month of one's birth.
biscuit n. 1 flat thin unleavened cake, usu. crisp and sweet. 2 fired unglazed pottery. 3 light brown colour. [Latin bis twice, coquo cook]
bisect v. divide into two (strictly, equal) parts. bisection n. bisector n. [from *bi-, Latin seco sect- cut]
bisexual -adj. 1 feeling or involving sexual attraction to people of both sexes. 2 hermaphrodite. -n. bisexual person. bisexuality n.
bishop n. 1 senior clergyman in charge of a diocese. 2 mitre-shaped chess piece. [Greek episkopos overseer]
bishopric n. office or diocese of a bishop.
bismuth n. 1 reddish-white metallic element used in alloys etc. 2 compound of it used medicinally. [German]
bison n. (pl. same) wild hump-backed ox of Europe or N. America. [Latin from Germanic]
bisque1 n. rich soup, esp. of lobster. [French]
bisque2 n. advantage of one free point or stroke in certain games. [French]
bisque3 n. = *biscuit 2.
bister n. (Brit. bistre) brownish pigment from wood soot. [French]
bistre n. (US bister) brownish pigment from wood soot. [French]
bistro n. (pl. -s) small informal restaurant. [French]
bit1 n. 1 small piece or quantity. 2 (prec. by a) fair amount (sold quite a bit). 3 often colloq. short or small time, distance, or amount (wait a bit; move up a bit; a bit tired; a bit of an idiot). bit by bit gradually. do one's bit colloq. make a useful contribution. [Old English]
bit2 past of *bite.
bit3 n. 1 metal mouthpiece of a bridle. 2 tool or piece for boring or drilling. 3 cutting or gripping part of a plane, pincers, etc. [Old English]
bit4 n. Computing unit of information expressed as a choice between two possibilities. [binary digit]
bitch -n. 1 female dog or other canine animal. 2 slang offens. spiteful woman. 3 slang unpleasant or difficult thing. -v. 1 speak scathingly or spitefully. 2 complain. [Old English]
bitchy adj. (-ier, -iest) slang spiteful. bitchily adv. bitchiness n.
bite -v. (-ting; past bit; past part. bitten) 1 cut or puncture with the teeth. 2 (foll. by off, away, etc.) detach thus. 3 (of an insect etc.) sting. 4 (of a wheel etc.) grip, penetrate. 5 accept bait or an inducement. 6 be harsh in effect, esp. intentionally. 7 (in passive) a swindle. b (foll. by by, with, etc.) be infected by (enthusiasm etc.). 8 colloq. worry, perturb. 9 cause smarting pain (biting wind). 10 be sharp or effective (biting wit). 11 (foll. by at) snap at. -n. 1 act of biting. 2 wound etc. made by biting. 3 a mouthful of food. b snack. 4 taking of bait by a fish. 5 pungency (esp. of flavour). 6 incisiveness, sharpness. 7 position of the teeth when the jaws are closed. bite the dust slang die. bite a person's head off colloq. respond angrily. bite one's lip repress emotion etc. [Old English]
bit on the side n. slang sexual relationship involving infidelity.
bit part n. minor role.
bitter -adj. 1 having a sharp pungent taste; not sweet. 2 causing, showing, or feeling mental pain or resentment (bitter memories). 3 a harsh; virulent (bitter animosity). b piercingly cold. -n. 1 beer flavoured with hops and tasting slightly bitter. 2 (in pl.) liquor flavoured esp. with wormwood, used in cocktails. to the bitter end to the very end in spite of difficulties. bitterly adv. bitterness n. [Old English]
bittern n. wading bird of the heron family. [French butor from Latin butio]
bitter-sweet -adj. sweet with a bitter aftertaste. -n. 1 such sweetness. 2 = *woody nightshade.
bitty adj. (-ier, -iest) made up of bits; scrappy.
bitumen n. tarlike mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum. [Latin]
bituminous adj. of or like bitumen.
bituminous coal n. coal burning with a smoky flame.
bivalve -n. aquatic mollusc with a hinged double shell, e.g. the oyster and mussel. -adj. with such a shell.
bivouac -n. temporary open encampment without tents. -v. (-ck-) make, or camp in, a bivouac. [French, probably from German]
biz n. colloq. business. [abbreviation]
bizarre adj. strange; eccentric; grotesque. [French]
Bk symb. berkelium.
BL abbr. British Library.
blab v. (-bb-) 1 talk foolishly or indiscreetly. 2 reveal (a secret etc.); confess. [imitative]
blabber -n. (also blabbermouth) person who blabs. -v. (often foll. by on) talk foolishly or inconsequentially.
black -adj. 1 reflecting no light, colourless from lack of light (like coal or soot); completely dark. 2 (Black) of the human group with dark-coloured skin, esp. African. 3 (of the sky etc.) heavily overcast. 4 angry; gloomy (black look, mood). 5 implying disgrace etc. (in his black books). 6 wicked, sinister, deadly. 7 portending trouble (things look black). 8 comic but sinister (black comedy). 9 (of tea or coffee) without milk. 10 (of industrial labour or its products) boycotted, esp. by a trade union, in a strike etc. -n. 1 black colour or pigment. 2 black clothes or material (dressed in black). 3 a (in a game) black piece, ball, etc. b player of this. 4 credit side of an account (in the black). 5 (Black) member of a dark-skinned race, esp. an African. -v. 1 make black (blacked his boots). 2 declare (goods etc.) 'black'. black out 1 effect a blackout on. 2 undergo a blackout. [Old English]
black and blue adj. bruised.
black and white -n. writing or printing (in black and white). -adj. 1 (of a film etc.) monochrome. 2 consisting of extremes only, oversimplified.
black art n. = *black magic.
blackball v. reject (a candidate) in a ballot.
black beetle n. the common cockroach.
black belt n. 1 highest grade of proficiency in judo, karate, etc. 2 holder of this grade, entitled to wear a black belt.
blackberry n. (pl. -ies) black fleshy edible fruit of the bramble.
blackbird n. common thrush of which the male is black with an orange beak.
blackboard n. board with a smooth dark surface for writing on with chalk.
black box n. flight-recorder.
blackcap n. small warbler, the male of which has a black-topped head.
Black Country n. (prec. by the) industrial area of the Midlands.
blackcurrant n. 1 cultivated flowering shrub. 2 its small dark edible berry.
Black Death n. (prec. by the) 14th-c. plague in Europe.
black economy n. unofficial and untaxed trade.
blacken v. 1 make or become black or dark. 2 defame, slander.
black eye n. bruised skin around the eye.
black flag n. flag of piracy.
blackfly n. 1 dark coloured thrips or aphid. 2 these collectively.
Black Forest gateau n. chocolate sponge with cherries and whipped cream.
Black Friar n. Dominican friar.
blackguard n. villain, scoundrel. blackguardly adj. [originally = menial]
blackhead n. black-topped pimple on the skin.
black hole n. region of space from which matter and radiation cannot escape.
black ice n. thin hard transparent ice on a road etc.
blacking n. black polish, esp. for shoes.
blackjack n. = *pontoon1.
blacklead n. graphite.
blackleg -n. derog. person refusing to join a strike etc. -v. (-gg-) act as a blackleg.
blacklist -n. list of people in disfavour etc. -v. put on a blacklist.
black magic n. magic supposed to invoke evil spirits.
blackmail -n. 1 a extortion of payment in return for silence. b payment so extorted. 2 use of threats or moral pressure. -v. 1 (try to) extort money etc. from by blackmail. 2 threaten, coerce. blackmailer n. [obsolete mail rent]
Black Maria n. slang police van.
black mark n. mark of discredit.
black market n. illicit trade in rationed, prohibited, or scarce commodities. black marketeer n.
Black Mass n. travesty of the Mass, in worship of Satan.
blackout n. 1 temporary loss of consciousness or memory. 2 loss of electric power, radio reception, etc. 3 compulsory darkness as a precaution against air raids. 4 temporary suppression of news. 5 sudden darkening of a theatre stage.
black pepper n. pepper made by grinding the whole dried pepper berry including the outer husk.
Black Power n. movement for Black rights and political power.
black pudding n. sausage of pork, dried pig's blood, suet, etc.
Black Rod n. principal usher of the House of Lords etc.
black sheep n. colloq. member of a family, group, etc. regarded as a disgrace or failure.
black sheep n. colloq. member of a family, group, etc. regarded as a disgrace or failure.
blackshirt n. hist.member of a Fascist organization.
blacksmith n. smith who works in iron.
black spot n. 1 place of danger or trouble. 2 plant disease producing black spots.
black tea n. tea that is fully fermented before drying.
blackthorn n. thorny shrub bearing white blossom and sloes.
black tie n. 1 black bow-tie worn with a dinner jacket. 2 colloq. man's formal evening dress.
black velvet n. mixture of stout and champagne.
Black Watch n. (prec. by the) Royal Highland Regiment.
black widow n. venomous spider of which the female devours the male.
bladder n. 1 a sac in some animals, esp. that holding urine. b this adapted for various uses. 2 inflated blister in seaweed etc. [Old English]
bladderwrack n. brown seaweed with air bladders.
blade n. 1 cutting part of a knife etc. 2 flattened part of an oar, propeller, etc. 3 a flat narrow leaf of grass etc. b broad thin part of a leaf. 4 flat bone, e.g. in the shoulder. [Old English]
blame -v. (-ming) 1 assign fault or responsibility to. 2 (foll. by on) fix responsibility for (an error etc.) on (blamed it on his brother). -n. 1 responsibility for an error etc. 2 blaming or attributing of responsibility (got all the blame). be to blame be responsible; deserve censure. blameable adj. blameless adj. blameworthy adj. [French: related to *blaspheme]
blanch v. 1 make or become white or pale. 2 a peel (almonds etc.) by scalding. b immerse (vegetables etc.) briefly in boiling water. 3 whiten (a plant) by depriving it of light. [French: related to *blank]
blancmange n. sweet opaque jelly of flavoured cornflour and milk. [French, = white food]
bland adj. 1 a mild, not irritating. b tasteless; insipid. 2 gentle in manner; suave. blandly adv. blandness n. [Latin blandus smooth]
blandish v. flatter; coax. blandishment n. (usu. in pl.). [Latin: related to *bland]
blank -adj. 1 a (of paper) not written or printed on. b (of a document) with spaces left for a signature or details. 2 a empty (blank space). b unrelieved (blank wall). 3 a without interest, result, or expression (blank face). b having (temporarily) no knowledge etc. (mind went blank). 4 complete (a blank refusal; blank despair). -n. 1 a unfilled space, esp. in a document. b document having blank spaces. 2 (in full blank cartridge) cartridge containing gunpowder but no bullet. 3 dash written instead of a word or letter. -v. (usu. foll. by off, out) screen, obscure. draw a blank get no response; fail. blankly adv. blankness n. [French blanc white, from Germanic]
blank cheque n. 1 cheque left for the payee to fill in. 2 colloq. unlimited freedom of action.
blanket -n. 1 large esp. woollen sheet used as a bed-covering etc. 2 thick covering mass or layer. -attrib. adj. covering everything; inclusive. -v. (-t-) 1 cover. 2 stifle, suppress. [French: related to *blank]
blanket bath n. body wash given to a bedridden patient.
blanket stitch n. stitch used to finish the edges of a blanket etc.
blank verse n. unrhymed verse, esp. iambic pentameters.
blare -v. (-ring) 1 sound or utter loudly. 2 make the sound of a trumpet. -n. blaring sound. [Low German or Dutch, imitative]
blarney -n. cajoling talk; flattery. -v. (-eys, -eyed) flatter, cajole. [Blarney, castle near Cork]
blasé adj. bored or indifferent through over-familiarity. [French]
blaspheme v. (-ming) 1 use religious names irreverently; treat a religious or sacred subject irreverently. 2 talk irreverently about; use blasphemy against. [Greek blasphemeo]
blasphemy n. (pl. -ies) 1 irreverent talk or treatment of a religious or sacred thing. 2 instance of this. blasphemous adj.
blast -n. 1 strong gust of air. 2 a explosion. b destructive wave of air from this. 3 loud note from a wind instrument, car horn, etc. 4 colloq. severe reprimand. -v. 1 blow up with explosives.
blast -n. 1 strong gust of air. 2 a explosion. b destructive wave of air from this. 3 loud note from a wind instrument, car horn, etc. 4 colloq. severe reprimand. -v. 1 blow up with explosives. 2 wither, blight (blasted oak; blasted her hopes). 3 (cause to) make a loud noise. -int. expressing annoyance. at full blast colloq. at maximum volume, speed, etc. blast off take off from a launching site. [Old English]
blasted colloq. -attrib. adj. damned; annoying. -adv. damned; extremely.
blast-furnace n. smelting furnace into which hot air is driven.
blast-off n. launching of a rocket etc.
blatant adj. 1 flagrant, unashamed. 2 loudly obtrusive. blatantly adv. [coined by Spenser]
blather (also blether) -n. foolish talk. -v. talk foolishly. [Old Norse]
blaze1 -n. 1 bright flame or fire. 2 violent outburst (of passion etc.). 3 brilliant display (blaze of scarlet, of glory). -v. (-zing) 1 burn or shine brightly or fiercely. 2 be consumed with anger, excitement, etc. blaze away (often foll. by at) 1 shoot continuously. 2 work vigorously. [Old English, = torch]
blaze2 -n. 1 white mark on an animal's face. 2 mark cut on a tree, esp. to show a route. -v. (-zing) mark (a tree or a path) with blazes. blaze a trail show the way for others. [origin uncertain]
blazer n. jacket without matching trousers, esp. lightweight and often part of a uniform. [from *blaze1]
blazon -v. 1 proclaim (esp. blazon abroad). 2 Heraldry describe or paint (arms). -n. Heraldry shield or coat of arms. blazonment n. blazonry n. [French, originally = shield]
bleach -v. whiten in sunlight or by a chemical process. -n. bleaching substance or process. [Old English]
bleak adj. 1 exposed, windswept. 2 dreary, grim. [Old Norse]
bleary adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 dim; blurred. 2 indistinct. [Low German]
bleary-eyed adj. having dim sight.
bleat -v. 1 (of a sheep, goat, or calf) make a wavering cry. 2 (often foll. by out) speak or say plaintively. -n. bleating cry. [Old English]
bleed -v. (past and past part. bled) 1 emit blood. 2 draw blood from surgically. 3 colloq. extort money from. 4 (often foll. by for) suffer wounds or violent death. 5 a emit sap. b (of dye) come out in water. 6 empty (a system) of excess air or fluid. -n. act of bleeding. one's heart bleeds usu. iron. one is very sorrowful. [Old English]
bleeder n. coarse slang unpleasant or contemptible person.
bleeding adj. & adv. coarse slang expressing annoyance or antipathy.
bleep -n. intermittent high-pitched electronic sound. -v. 1 make a bleep. 2 summon with a bleeper. [imitative]
bleeper n. small electronic device bleeping to contact the carrier.
blemish -n. flaw, defect, or stain. -v. spoil, mark, or stain. [French]
blench v. flinch, quail. [Old English]
blend -v. 1 mix together as required. 2 become one. 3 (often foll. by with, in) mingle; mix thoroughly. 4 (esp. of colours) merge imperceptibly; harmonize. -n. mixture. [Old Norse]
blender n. machine for liquidizing, chopping, or puréeing food.
blenny n. (pl. -ies) small spiny-finned scaleless marine fish. [Greek blennos mucus]
bless v. (past and past part. blessed, poet. blest) 1 ask God to look favourably on, esp. by making the sign of the cross over. 2 consecrate (food etc.). 3 glorify (God). 4 attribute one's good luck to (stars etc.); thank. 5 (usu. in passive) make happy or successful (blessed with children). bless me (or my soul) exclamation of surprise etc. bless you! exclamation of endearment, gratitude, etc., or to a person who has just sneezed. [Old English]
blessed adj. (also poet. blest) 1 holy. 2 euphem. cursed (blessed nuisance!). 3 RC Ch. beatified. blessedness n.
blessing n. 1 invocation of (esp. divine) favour. 2 grace said at a meal. 3 benefit.
blether var. of *blather.
blew past of *blow1.
blight -n. 1 plant disease caused by insects etc. 2 such an insect etc. 3 harmful or destructive force. 4 ugly urban area. -v. 1 affect with blight. 2 harm, destroy. 3 spoil. [origin unknown]
blighter n. colloq. contemptible or annoying person.
Blighty n. Mil. slang England; home. [Hindustani, = foreign]
blimey int. coarse slang expression of surprise, contempt, etc. [(God) blind me!]
blimp n. 1 (also (Colonel) Blimp) reactionary person. 2 small non-rigid airship. 3 soundproof cover for a cine-camera. [origin uncertain]
blind -adj. 1 lacking the power of sight. 2 a without adequate foresight, discernment, or information (blind effort). b (often foll. by to) unwilling or unable to appreciate a factor etc. (blind to argument). 3 not governed by purpose or reason (blind forces). 4 reckless (blind hitting). 5 a concealed (blind ditch). b closed at one end. 6 (of flying) using instruments only. 7 Cookery (of a flan case etc.) baked without a filling. -v. 1 deprive of sight. 2 rob of judgement; deceive; overawe. 3 slang go recklessly. -n. 1 screen for a window; awning. 2 thing used to hide the truth. 3 obstruction to sight or light. -adv. blindly. blindly adv. blindness n. [Old English]
blind alley n. 1 alley closed at one end. 2 futile course.
blind date n. colloq. date between two people who have not previously met.
blind drunk adj. colloq. extremely drunk.
blindfold -v. cover the eyes of (a person) with a tied cloth etc. -n. cloth etc. so used. -adj. & adv. 1 with eyes covered. 2 without due care. [originally blindfelled = struck blind]
blind man's buff n. game in which a blindfold player tries to catch others.
blind spot n. 1 point on the retina insensitive to light. 2 area where vision or understanding is lacking.
blindworm n. = *slow-worm.
blink -v. 1 shut and open the eyes quickly. 2 (often foll. by back) prevent (tears) by blinking. 3 shine unsteadily, flicker. -n. 1 act of blinking. 2 momentary gleam or glimpse. blink at 1 look at while blinking. 2 ignore, shirk. on the blink slang not working properly; out of order. [Dutch, var. of *blench]
blinker -n. 1 (usu. in pl.) each of two screens on a bridle preventing lateral vision. 2 device that blinks. -v. 1 obscure with blinkers. 2 (as blinkered adj.) having narrow and prejudiced views.
blinking adj. & adv. slang expressing annoyance etc. (it's blinking stupid).
blip -n. 1 minor deviation or error. 2 quick popping sound. 3 small image on a radar screen. -v. (-pp-) make a blip. [imitative]
bliss n. 1 perfect joy. 2 being in heaven. blissful adj. blissfully adv. [Old English]
blister -n. 1 small bubble on the skin filled with watery fluid and caused by heat or friction. 2 similar swelling on plastic, wood, etc. -v. 1 come up in blisters. 2 raise a blister on. 3 attack sharply. [origin uncertain]
blithe adj. 1 cheerful, happy. 2 careless, casual. blithely adv. [Old English]
blithering attrib. adj. colloq. hopeless; contemptible (esp. in blithering idiot). [blither, var. of *blather]
BLitt. abbr. Bachelor of Letters. [Latin Baccalaureus Litterarum]
blitz colloq. -n. 1 a intensive or sudden (esp. aerial) attack. b intensive period of work etc. (must have a blitz on this room). 2 (the Blitz) German air raids on London in 1940. -v. inflict a blitz on. [abbreviation of *blitzkrieg]
blitzkrieg n. intense military campaign intended to bring about a swift victory. [German, = lightning war]
blizzard n. severe snowstorm. [origin unknown]
bloat v. 1 inflate, swell. 2 (as bloated adj.) inflated with pride, wealth, or food. 3 cure (a herring) by salting and smoking lightly. [Old Norse]
bloater n. bloated herring.
blob n. small drop or spot. [imitative]
bloc n. group of governments etc. sharing a common purpose. [French: related to *block]
block -n. 1 solid piece of hard material, esp. stone or wood. 2 this as a base for chopping etc., as a stand, or for mounting a horse from. 3 a large building, esp. when subdivided. b group of buildings between streets. 4 obstruction. 5 two or more pulleys mounted in a case. 6 piece of wood or metal engraved for printing. 7 slang head. 8 (often attrib.) number of things as a unit, e.g. shares, theatre seats (block booking). 9 sheets of paper glued along one edge. -v. 1 a (often foll. by up) obstruct. b impede. 2 restrict the use of. 3 Cricket stop (a ball) with a bat defensively. block in 1 sketch roughly; plan. 2 confine. block out 1 shut out (light, noise, a memory, view, etc.). 2 sketch roughly; plan. block up confine; enclose. [Low German or Dutch]
blockade -n. surrounding or blocking of a place by an enemy to prevent entry and exit. -v. (-ding) subject to a blockade.
blockage n. obstruction.
block and tackle n. system of pulleys and ropes, esp. for lifting.
blockbuster n. slang 1 thing of great power, esp. a very successful film, book, etc. 2 highly destructive bomb.
block capitals n.pl. (also block letters) letters printed without serifs, or written with each letter separate and in capitals.
blockhead n. stupid person.
blockhouse n. 1 reinforced concrete shelter. 2 hist. small fort of timber.
block vote n. vote proportional in power to the number of people a delegate represents.
bloke n. slang man, fellow. [Shelta]
blond (of a woman usu. blonde) -adj. (of a person, hair, or complexion) light-coloured, fair. -n. blond person. [Latin blondus yellow]
blood -n. 1 usu. red fluid circulating in the arteries and veins of animals. 2 bloodshed, esp. killing. 3 passion, temperament. 4 race, descent, parentage (of the same blood). 5 relationship; relations (blood is thicker than water). 6 dandy. -v. 1 give (a hound) a first taste of blood. 2 initiate (a person). in one's blood inherent in one's character. [Old English]
blood bank n. store of blood for transfusion.
blood bath n. massacre.
blood count n. number of corpuscles in a specific amount of blood.
blood-curdling adj. horrifying.
blood donor n. person giving blood for transfusion.
blood group n. any of the types of human blood.
blood-heat n. normal human temperature, about 37 °C or 98.4 °F.
bloodhound n. large keen-scented dog used in tracking.
bloodless adj. 1 without blood or bloodshed. 2 unemotional. 3 pale. 4 feeble.
blood-letting n. surgical removal of blood.
blood-money n. 1 money paid as compensation for a death. 2 money paid to a killer.
blood orange n. red-fleshed orange.
blood-poisoning n. diseased condition caused by micro-organisms in the blood.
blood pressure n. pressure of the blood in the arteries etc., measured for diagnosis.
blood relation n. (also blood relative) relative by birth.
bloodshed n. killing.
bloodshot adj. (of an eyeball) inflamed.
blood sport n. sport involving the killing or wounding of animals.
bloodstain n. stain caused by blood. bloodstained adj.
bloodstream n. blood in circulation.
bloodsucker n. 1 leech. 2 extortioner. bloodsucking adj.
blood sugar n. amount of glucose in the blood.
blood test n. examination of blood, esp. for diagnosis.
bloodthirsty adj. (-ier, -iest) eager for bloodshed.
blood-vessel n. vein, artery, or capillary carrying blood.
bloody -adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of, like, running with, or smeared with blood. 2 a involving bloodshed. b bloodthirsty, cruel. 3 coarse slang expressing annoyance or antipathy, or as an intensifier (bloody fool; a bloody sight better). 4 red. -adv. coarse slang as an intensifier (bloody awful). -v. (-ies, -ied) stain with blood.
Bloody Mary n. mixture of vodka and tomato juice.
bloody-minded adj. colloq. deliberately uncooperative.
bloom -n. 1 a flower, esp. cultivated. b state of flowering (in bloom). 2 one's prime (in full bloom). 3 a healthy glow of the complexion. b fine powder on fresh fruit and leaves. -v. 1 bear flowers; be in flower. 2 be in one's prime; flourish. [Old Norse]
bloomer1 n. 1 slang blunder. 2 plant that blooms in a specified way.
bloomer2 n. long loaf with diagonal marks. [origin uncertain]
bloomers n.pl. 1 women's long loose knickers. 2 hist. women's loose knee-length trousers. [Mrs A. Bloomer, name of the originator]
blooming -adj. 1 flourishing; healthy. 2 slang an intensifier (blooming miracle). -adv. slang an intensifier (blooming difficult).
blossom -n. 1 flower or mass of flowers, esp. of a fruit-tree. 2 promising stage (blossom of youth). -v. 1 open into flower. 2 mature, thrive. [Old English]
blot -n. 1 spot or stain of ink etc. 2 disgraceful act or quality. 3 blemish. -v. (-tt-) 1 make a blot on, stain. 2 dry with blotting-paper. blot one's copybook damage one's reputation. blot out 1 obliterate. 2 obscure (a view, sound, etc.). [probably Scandinavian]
blotch -n. 1 discoloured or inflamed patch on the skin. 2 irregular patch of colour. -v. cover with blotches. blotchy adj. (-ier, -iest). [obsolete plotch, *blot]
blotter n. pad of blotting-paper.
blotting-paper n. absorbent paper for drying wet ink.
blotto adj. slang very drunk. [origin uncertain]
blouse -n. 1 woman's garment like a shirt. 2 upper part of a military uniform. -v. (-sing) make (a bodice etc.) full like a blouse. [French]
blouson n. short blouse-shaped jacket. [French]
blow1 -v. (past blew; past part. blown) 1 direct a current of air (at) esp. from the mouth. 2 drive or be driven by blowing (blew the door open). 3 (esp. of the wind) move rapidly. 4 expel by breathing (blew smoke). 5 sound or be sounded by blowing. 6 (past part. blowed) slang (esp. in imper.) curse, confound (I'm blowed if I know; blow it!). 7 clear (the nose) by blowing. 8 puff, pant. 9 slang depart suddenly (from). 10 shatter etc. by an explosion. 11 make or shape (glass or a bubble) by blowing. 12 a melt from overloading (the fuse has blown). b break or burst suddenly. 13 (of a whale) eject air and water. 14 break into with explosives. 15 slang a squander (blew £20). b bungle (an opportunity etc.). c reveal (a secret etc.). -n. 1 act of blowing. 2 a gust of wind or air. b exposure to fresh air. be blowed if one will colloq. be unwilling to. blow a gasket slang lose one's temper. blow hot and cold colloq. vacillate. blow in 1 break inwards by an explosion. 2 colloq. arrive unexpectedly. blow a person's mind slang cause to have hallucinations etc.; astound. blow off 1 escape or allow (steam etc.) to escape forcibly. 2 slang break wind noisily. blow out 1 extinguish by blowing. 2 send outwards by an explosion. blow over (of trouble etc.) fade away. blow one's top colloq. explode in rage. blow up 1 explode. 2 colloq. rebuke strongly. 3 inflate (a tyre etc.). 4 colloq. a enlarge (a photograph). b exaggerate. 5 colloq. arise, happen. 6 colloq. lose one's temper. [Old English]
blow2 n. 1 hard stroke with a hand or weapon. 2 sudden shock or misfortune. [origin unknown]
blow-by-blow attrib. adj. (of a narrative etc.) detailed.
blow-dry -v. arrange (the hair) while drying it. -n. act of doing this.
blower n. 1 device for blowing. 2 colloq. telephone.
blowfly n. bluebottle.
blow-hole n. 1 nostril of a whale. 2 hole (esp. in ice) for breathing or fishing through. 3 vent for air, smoke, etc.
blow-job n. coarse slang instance of fellatio or cunnilingus.
blowlamp n. device with a very hot flame for burning off paint, plumbing, etc.
blown past part. of *blow1.
blow-out n. colloq. 1 burst tyre. 2 melted fuse. 3 huge meal.
blowpipe n. 1 tube for blowing air through, esp. to intensify a flame or to blow glass. 2 tube for propelling poisoned darts etc. by blowing.
blowtorch n. US = *blowlamp.
blow-up n. 1 colloq. enlargement (of a photograph etc.). 2 explosion.
blowy adj. (-ier, -iest) windy.
blowzy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 coarse-looking; red-faced. 2 slovenly. [obsolete blowze beggar's wench]
blub v. (-bb-) slang sob. [shortening of *blubber]
blubber -n. whale fat. -v. 1 sob loudly. 2 sob out (words). -adj. swollen, thick. [probably imitative]
bludgeon -n. heavy club. -v. 1 beat with this. 2 coerce. [origin unknown]
blue -adj. (bluer, bluest) 1 having the colour of a clear sky. 2 sad, depressed. 3 pornographic (a blue film). 4 politically conservative. -n. 1 blue colour or pigment. 2 blue clothes or material (dressed in blue). 3 person who represents a university in a sport, esp. Oxford or Cambridge. 4 Conservative party supporter. -v. (blues, blued, bluing or blueing) 1 make blue. 2 slang squander. once in a blue moon very rarely. out of the blue unexpectedly. [French from Germanic]
blue baby n. baby with a blue complexion due to a congenital heart defect.
bluebell n. woodland plant with bell-shaped blue flowers.
blueberry n. (pl. -ies) small blue-black edible fruit of various plants.
blue blood n. noble birth.
Blue Book n. report issued by Parliament or the Privy Council.
bluebottle n. large buzzing fly; blowfly.
blue cheese n. cheese with veins of blue mould.
blue-collar attrib. adj. (of a worker or work) manual; industrial.
blue-eyed boy n. colloq. favourite.
blue funk n. colloq. terror or panic.
bluegrass n. a kind of instrumental country-and-western music.
blue-pencil v. censor or cut (a manuscript, film, etc.).
Blue Peter n. blue flag with a white square flown by a ship about to leave port.
blueprint n. 1 photographic print of plans in white on a blue background. 2 detailed plan.
blue rinse n. bluish dye for grey hair.
blues n.pl. 1 (prec. by the) bout of depression. 2 a (prec. by the; often treated as sing.) melancholic music of Black American origin, usu. in a twelve-bar sequence. b (pl. same) (as sing.) piece of such music (played a blues).
bluestocking n. usu. derog. intellectual or literary woman. [18th-c. Blue Stocking Society]
blue tit n. common tit with a blue crest.
blue whale n. rorqual, the largest known living mammal.
bluff1 -v. pretend strength, confidence, etc. -n. act of bluffing. call a person's bluff challenge a person to prove a claim. [Dutch bluffen brag]
bluff2 -adj. 1 blunt, frank, hearty. 2 vertical or steep and broad in front. -n. steep cliff or headland. [origin unknown]
bluish adj. fairly blue.
blunder -n. serious or foolish mistake. -v. 1 make a blunder. 2 move clumsily; stumble. [probably Scandinavian]
blunderbuss n. hist. short large-bored gun. [Dutch donderbus thunder gun]
blunt -adj. 1 not sharp or pointed. 2 direct, outspoken. -v. make blunt or less sharp. bluntly adv. (in sense 2 of adj.). bluntness n. [probably Scandinavian]
blur -v. (-rr-) make or become unclear or less distinct; smear. -n. blurred object, sound, memory, etc. [perhaps related to *bleary]
blurb n. promotional description, esp. of a book. [coined by G. Burgess 1907]
blurt v. (usu. foll. by out) utter abruptly, thoughtlessly, or tactlessly. [imitative]
blush -v. 1 a become pink in the face from embarrassment or shame. b (of the face) redden thus. 2 feel embarrassed or ashamed. 3 redden. -n. 1 act of blushing. 2 pink tinge. [Old English]
blusher n. rouge.
bluster -v. 1 behave pompously or boisterously. 2 (of the wind etc.) blow fiercely. -n. bombastic talk; empty threats. blustery adj. [imitative]
BM abbr. 1 British Museum. 2 Bachelor of Medicine.
BMA abbr. British Medical Association.
B.Mus. abbr. Bachelor of Music.
BMX n. 1 organized bicycle-racing on a dirt-track. 2 bicycle used for this. [abbreviation of bicycle moto-cross]
BO abbr. colloq. body odour.
boa n. 1 large snake which kills by crushing and suffocating. 2 long stole of feathers or fur. [Latin]
boa constrictor n. species of boa.
boar n. 1 male wild pig. 2 uncastrated male pig. [Old English]
board -n. 1 a flat thin piece of sawn timber, usu. long and narrow. b material resembling this, of compressed fibres. c thin slab of wood etc. d thick stiff card used in bookbinding. 2 provision of regular meals, usu. with accommodation, for payment. 3 directors of a company; official administrative body. 4 (in pl.) stage of a theatre. 5 side of a ship. -v. 1 go on board (a ship, train, etc.). 2 receive, or provide with, meals and usu. lodging. 3 (usu. foll. by up) cover with boards; seal or close. go by the board be neglected or discarded. on board on or on to a ship, aircraft, oil rig, etc. take on board consider, take notice of; accept. [Old English]
boarder n. 1 person who boards, esp. at a boarding-school. 2 person who boards a ship, esp. an enemy.
board-game n. game played on a board.
boarding-house n. unlicensed establishment providing board and lodging, esp. to holiday-makers.
boarding-school n. school in which pupils live in term-time.
boardroom n. room in which a board of directors etc. meets regularly.
boast -v. 1 declare one's virtues, wealth, etc. with excessive pride. 2 own or have with pride (hotel boasts a ballroom). -n. 1 act of boasting. 2 thing one is proud of. [Anglo-French]
boastful adj. given to boasting. boastfully adv.
boat -n. 1 small vessel propelled on water by an engine, oars, or sails. 2 any ship. 3 long low jug for sauce etc. -v. go in a boat, esp. for pleasure. in the same boat having the same problems. [Old English]
boater n. flat-topped straw hat with a brim.
boat-hook n. long hooked pole for moving boats.
boat-house n. waterside shed for housing boats.
boating n. rowing or sailing as recreation.
boatman n. person who hires out boats or provides transport by boat.
boat people n.pl. refugees travelling by sea.
boatswain n. (also bosun, bo'sun) ship's officer in charge of equipment and crew.
boat-train n. train scheduled to meet or go on a boat.
bob1 -v. (-bb-) 1 move quickly up and down. 2 (usu. foll. by back, up) bounce or emerge buoyantly or suddenly. 3 cut (the hair) in a bob. 4 curtsy. -n. 1 jerking or bouncing movement, esp. upward. 2 hairstyle with the hair hanging evenly above the shoulders. 3 weight on a pendulum etc. 4 horse's docked tail. 5 curtsy. [imitative]
bob2 n. (pl. same) hist. slang shilling (now = 5 pence). [origin unknown]
bob3 n. bob's your uncle slang expression of completion or success. [pet form of Robert]
bobbin n. spool or reel for thread etc. [French]
bobble n. small woolly ball on a hat etc. [diminutive of *bob1]
bobby n. (pl. -ies) colloq. police officer. [Sir Robert Peel, 19th-c. statesman]
bob-sled n. US = *bob-sleigh.
bob-sleigh -n. mechanically-steered and -braked racing sledge. -v. race in a bob-sleigh.
bobtail n. 1 docked tail. 2 horse or dog with this.
Boche n. slang derog. German, esp. a soldier. [French]
bod n. colloq. person. [shortening of *body]
bode v. (-ding) be a sign of, portend. bode well (or ill) be a good (or bad) sign. [Old English]
bodega n. cellar or shop selling wine. [Spanish]
bodge var. of *botch.
bodice n. 1 part of a woman's dress above the waist. 2 woman's vest-like undergarment. [originally pair of bodies]
bodily -adj. of the body. -adv. 1 as a whole body (threw them bodily). 2 in the flesh, in person.
bodkin n. blunt thick needle for drawing tape etc. through a hem. [origin uncertain]
body n. (pl. -ies) 1 whole physical structure, including the bones, flesh, and organs, of a person or an animal, whether dead or alive. 2 = *trunk 2. 3 main or central part; bulk or majority (body of opinion). 4 a group regarded as a unit. b (usu. foll. by of) collection (body of facts). 5 quantity (body of water). 6 piece of matter (heavenly body). 7 colloq. person. 8 full or substantial quality of flavour, tone, etc. in a body all together. [Old English]
body-blow n. severe setback.
body-building n. exercises to enlarge and strengthen the muscles.
bodyguard n. person or group escorting and protecting another.
body language n. communication through gestures and poses.
body odour n. smell of the human body, esp. when unpleasant.
body politic n. nation or State as a corporate body.
body shop n. workshop where bodywork is repaired.
body stocking n. woman's undergarment covering the torso.
bodysuit n. close-fitting all-in-one garment for women, worn esp. for sport.
bodywork n. outer shell of a vehicle.
Boer -n. South African of Dutch descent. -adj. of the Boers. [Dutch, = farmer]
boffin n. colloq. research scientist. [origin unknown]
bog -n. 1 a wet spongy ground. b stretch of this. 2 slang lavatory. -v. (-gg-) (foll. by down; usu. in passive) impede (bogged down by snow). boggy adj. (-ier, -iest). [Irish or Gaelic bogach]
bogey1 n. (pl. -eys) Golf 1 score of one stroke more than par at any hole. 2 (formerly) par. [perhaps from Bogey, as an imaginary player]
bogey2 n. (also bogy) (pl. -eys or -ies) 1 evil or mischievous spirit; devil. 2 awkward thing. 3 slang piece of dried nasal mucus. [originally (Old) Bogey the Devil]
bogeyman n. (also bogyman) frightening person etc.
boggle v. (-ling) colloq. be startled or baffled (esp. the mind boggles). [probably dial. boggle *bogey2]
bogie n. wheeled undercarriage below a locomotive etc. [origin unknown]
bogus adj. sham, spurious. [origin unknown]
bogy var. of *bogey2.
bogyman var. of *bogeyman.
Bohemian -n. 1 native of Bohemia, a Czech. 2 (also bohemian) socially unconventional person, esp. an artist or writer. -adj. 1 of Bohemia or its people. 2 (also bohemian) socially unconventional. bohemianism n. [Bohemia, part of Czechoslovakia]
boil1 -v. 1 a (of a liquid) start to bubble up and turn into vapour on reaching a certain temperature. b (of a vessel) contain boiling liquid (kettle is boiling). 2 a bring to boiling point. b cook in boiling liquid. c subject to boiling water, e.g. to clean. 3 a move or seethe like boiling water. b be very angry. -n. act or process of boiling; boiling-point (on the boil; bring to the boil). boil down 1 reduce in volume by boiling. 2 reduce to essentials. 3 (foll. by to) amount to. boil over 1 spill over in boiling. 2 lose one's temper. [Latin bullio to bubble]
boil2 n. inflamed pus-filled swelling under the skin. [Old English]
boiler n. 1 apparatus for heating a hot-water supply. 2 tank for heating water or turning it to steam. 3 tub for boiling laundry etc. 4 fowl etc. for boiling.
boiler-room n. room with a boiler and other heating equipment, esp. in a basement.
boiler suit n. protective outer garment of trousers and jacket in one.
boiling adj. colloq. very hot.
boiling point n. 1 temperature at which a liquid begins to boil. 2 great excitement.
boisterous adj. 1 noisily exuberant, rough. 2 (of the sea etc.) stormy. [origin unknown]
bold adj. 1 confidently assertive; adventurous, brave. 2 impudent. 3 vivid (bold colours). make (or be) so bold as to presume to; venture to. boldly adv. boldness n. [Old English]
bole n. trunk of a tree. [Old Norse]
bolero n. (pl. -s) 1 Spanish dance, or the music for it, in triple time. 2 woman's short open jacket. [Spanish]
boll n. round seed-vessel of cotton, flax, etc. [Dutch]
bollard n. 1 short post in the road, esp. on a traffic island. 2 short post on a quay or ship for securing a rope. [perhaps related to *bole]
bollocking n. (also ballocking) coarse slang severe reprimand.
bollocks n. (also ballocks) coarse slang 1 (usu. as int.) nonsense. 2 testicles. [Old English: related to *ball1]
boloney n. (also baloney) slang nonsense. [origin uncertain]
Bolshevik -n. 1 hist. member of the radical faction of the Russian Social Democratic Party becoming the Communist Party in 1918. 2 Russian Communist. 3 any revolutionary socialist. -adj. 1 of the Bolsheviks. 2 Communist. Bolshevism n. Bolshevist n. [Russian, = member of the majority]
Bolshie (also Bolshy) slang -adj. (usu. bolshie) 1 uncooperative; bad-tempered. 2 left-wing. -n. (pl. -ies) Bolshevik. [abbreviation]
bolster -n. long cylindrical pillow. -v. (usu. foll. by up) encourage, support, prop up. [Old English]
bolt1 -n. 1 sliding bar and socket used to fasten a door etc. 2 large metal pin with a thread, usu. used with a nut, to hold things together. 3 discharge of lightning. 4 act of bolting. -v. 1 fasten with a bolt. 2 (foll. by in, out) keep (a person etc.) in or out by bolting a door. 3 fasten together with bolts. 4 a dash off suddenly. b (of a horse) suddenly gallop out of control. 5 gulp down (food) unchewed. 6 (of a plant) run to seed. -adv. (usu. in bolt upright) rigidly, stiffly. bolt from the blue complete surprise. [Old English]
bolt2 v. (also boult) sift (flour etc.). [French]
bolt-hole n. means of escape.
bomb -n. 1 container filled with explosive, incendiary material, etc., designed to explode and cause damage. 2 (prec. by the) the atomic or hydrogen bomb. 3 slang large sum of money (cost a bomb). -v. 1 attack with bombs; drop bombs on. 2 (usu. foll. by along, off) colloq. go very quickly. like a bomb colloq. 1 very successfully. 2 very fast. [Greek bombos hum]
bombard v. 1 attack with heavy guns or bombs etc. 2 (often foll. by with) question or abuse persistently. 3 Physics direct a stream of high-speed particles at. bombardment n. [Latin: related to *bomb]
bombardier n. 1 non-commissioned officer in the artillery. 2 US crew member in an aircraft who aims and releases bombs.
bombast n. pompous language; hyperbole. bombastic adj. [earlier bombace cotton wool]
Bombay duck n. dried fish as a relish, esp. with curry. [corruption of bombil, native name of fish]
bombazine n. twilled worsted dress-material. [Greek bombux silk]
bomber n. 1 aircraft equipped to drop bombs. 2 person using bombs, esp. illegally.
bomber jacket n. jacket gathered at the waist and cuffs.
bombshell n. 1 overwhelming surprise or disappointment. 2 artillery bomb. 3 slang very attractive woman.
bomb-site n. area where bombs have caused destruction.
bona fide -adj. genuine; sincere. -adv. genuinely; sincerely. [Latin]
bonanza n. 1 source of wealth or prosperity. 2 large output (esp. of a mine). [Spanish, = fair weather]
bon-bon n. sweet. [French bon good]
bond -n. 1 thing or force that unites or (usu. in pl.) restrains. 2 binding agreement. 3 Commerce certificate issued by a government or a company promising to repay borrowed money at a fixed rate of interest. 4 adhesiveness. 5 Law deed binding a person to make payment to another. 6 Chem. linkage between atoms in a molecule. -v. 1 hold or tie together. 2 connect or reinforce with a bond. 3 place (goods) in bond. in bond stored by Customs until duty is paid. [var. of *band]
bondage n. 1 slavery. 2 subjection to constraint etc. 3 sexual practices involving constraint. [Anglo-Latin: related to *bondsman]
bonded adj. 1 stored in or for storing in bond (bonded whisky, warehouse). 2 (of a debt) secured by bonds.
bond paper n. high-quality writing-paper.
bondsman n. serf, slave. [Old English bonda husbandman]
bone -n. 1 any piece of hard tissue making up the skeleton in vertebrates. 2 (in pl.) a skeleton, esp. as remains. b body. 3 material of bones or similar material, e.g. ivory. 4 thing made of bone. 5 (in pl.) essentials (the bones of an agreement). 6 strip of stiffening in a corset etc. -v. (-ning) 1 remove the bones from. 2 stiffen with bone etc. bone up (often foll. by on) colloq. study intensively. have a bone to pick (usu. foll. by with) have cause for dispute (with a person). make no bones about 1 be frank about. 2 not hesitate or scruple. boneless adj. [Old English]
bone china n. fine china made of clay mixed with bone ash.
bone-dry adj. completely dry.
bone-idle adj. utterly idle.
bone-marrow n. = *marrow 2.
bone-meal n. crushed bones, esp. as a fertilizer.
bone of contention n. source of dispute.
boneshaker n. decrepit or uncomfortable old vehicle.
bonfire n. large open-air fire, esp. for burning rubbish. [from *bone (because bones were once used), *fire]
bongo n. (pl. -s or -es) either of a pair of small drums usu. held between the knees and played with the fingers. [American Spanish]
bonhomie n. good-natured friendliness. [French]
bonk -v. 1 bang, bump. 2 coarse slang have sexual intercourse (with). -n. instance of bonking (bonk on the head). [imitative]
bonkers predic. adj. slang crazy. [origin unknown]
bon mot n. (pl. bons mots) witty saying. [French]
bonnet n. 1 a hat tied under the chin, worn esp. by babies. b Scotsman's floppy beret. 2 hinged cover over a vehicle's engine. [French]
bonny adj. (-ier, -iest) esp. Scot. & N.Engl. 1 a physically attractive. b healthy-looking. 2 good, pleasant. [perhaps from French bon good]
bonsai n. (pl. same) 1 dwarfed tree or shrub. 2 art of growing these. [Japanese]
bonus n. extra benefit or payment. [Latin, = good]
bon vivant n. (pl. bon or bons vivants pronunc. same) person fond of good food and drink. [French]
bon voyage int. expression of good wishes to a departing traveller. [French]
bony adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 thin with prominent bones. 2 having many bones. 3 of or like bone. boniness n.
boo -int. 1 expression of disapproval etc. 2 sound intended to surprise. -n. utterance of boo, esp. to a performer etc. -v. (boos, booed) 1 utter boos. 2 jeer at by booing. [imitative]
boob1 colloq. -n. 1 silly mistake. 2 foolish person. -v. make a silly mistake. [shortening of *booby]
boob2 n. slang woman's breast. [origin uncertain]
booby n. (pl. -ies) stupid or childish person. [Spanish bobo]
booby prize n. prize given for coming last.
booby trap n. 1 practical joke in the form of a trap. 2 disguised explosive device triggered by the unknowing victim.
boodle n. slang money, esp. gained or used dishonestly. [Dutch boedel possessions]
boogie v. (-ies, -ied, -ieing) slang dance to pop music.
boogie-woogie n. style of playing blues or jazz on the piano. [origin unknown]
book -n. 1 a written or printed work with pages bound along one side. b work intended for publication. 2 bound blank sheets for notes, records, etc. 3 bound set of tickets, stamps, matches, etc. 4 (in pl.) set of records or accounts. 5 main division of a large literary work. 6 telephone directory. 7 colloq. magazine. 8 libretto, script, etc. 9 record of bets. -v. 1 a (also absol.) reserve (a seat etc.) in advance. b engage (an entertainer etc.). 2 a take the personal details of (an offender or rule-breaker). b enter in a book or list. book in register at a hotel etc. book up 1 buy tickets in advance. 2 (as booked up) with all places reserved. bring to book call to account. go by the book proceed by the rules. in a person's good (or bad) books in (or out of) favour with a person. [Old English]
bookbinder n. person who binds books for a living. bookbinding n.
bookcase n. cabinet of shelves for books.
book club n. society in which selected books are available cheaply.
book-end n. prop used to keep books upright.
bookie n. colloq. = *bookmaker. [abbreviation]
booking n. reservation or engagement.
booking-hall n. (also booking-office) ticket office at a railway station etc.
bookish adj. 1 studious; fond of reading. 2 having knowledge mainly from books.
bookkeeper n. person who keeps accounts, esp. for a living. bookkeeping n.
booklet n. small book usu. with a paper cover.
bookmaker n. professional taker of bets. bookmaking n.
bookmark n. thing used to mark a reader's place.
book-plate n. decorative personalized label stuck in a book.
bookseller n. dealer in books.
bookshop n. shop selling books.
bookstall n. stand selling books, newspapers, etc.
book token n. voucher exchangeable for books.
bookworm n. 1 colloq. devoted reader. 2 larva feeding on the paper and glue in books.
Boolean adj. denoting a system of algebraic notation to represent logical propositions. [Boole, name of a mathematician]
Boolean logic n. use of 'and', 'or', and 'not' in retrieving information from a database.
boom1 -n. deep resonant sound. -v. make or speak with a boom. [imitative]
boom2 -n. period of economic prosperity or activity. -v. be suddenly prosperous. [perhaps from *boom1]
boom3 n. 1 pivoted spar to which a sail is attached. 2 long pole carrying a microphone, camera, etc. 3 barrier across a harbour etc. [Dutch, = *beam]
boomerang -n. 1 flat V-shaped hardwood missile used esp. by Australian Aboriginals, able to return to its thrower. 2 plan that recoils on its originator. -v. (of a plan etc.) backfire. [Aboriginal]
boon1 n. advantage; blessing. [Old Norse]
boon2 adj. intimate, favourite (usu. boon companion). [French bon from Latin bonus good]
boor n. ill-mannered person. boorish adj. [Low German or Dutch]
boost colloq. -v. 1 promote or encourage. 2 increase, assist. 3 push from below. -n. act or result of boosting. [origin unknown]
booster n. 1 device for increasing power or voltage. 2 auxiliary engine or rocket for initial speed. 3 dose, injection, etc. renewing the effect of an earlier one.
boot1 -n. 1 outer foot-covering reaching above the ankle. 2 luggage compartment of a car. 3 colloq. a firm kick. b (prec. by the) dismissal (got the boot). -v. 1 kick. 2 (often foll. by out) eject forcefully. 3 (usu. foll. by up) make (a computer) ready. put the boot in 1 kick brutally. 2 harm a person. [Old Norse]
boot2 n. to boot as well, in addition. [Old English]
bootblack n. US person who polishes boots and shoes.
bootee n. baby's soft shoe.
booth n. 1 small temporary structure used esp. as a market stall. 2 enclosure for telephoning, voting, etc. 3 cubicle in a restaurant etc. [Old Norse]
bootleg -adj. (esp. of alcohol) smuggled, illicit. -v. (-gg-) illicitly make or deal in (alcohol etc.). bootlegger n.
bootlicker n. colloq. toady.
boots n. hotel servant who cleans shoes etc.
bootstrap n. loop used to pull a boot on. pull oneself up by one's bootstraps better oneself.
booty n. 1 loot, spoil. 2 colloq. prize or gain. [German]
booze colloq. -n. alcoholic drink. -v. (-zing) drink alcohol, esp. to excess. boozy adj. (-ier, -iest). [Dutch]
boozer n. colloq. 1 habitual drinker. 2 public house.
booze-up n. slang drinking bout.
bop1 colloq. -n. 1 a spell of dancing, esp. to pop music. b social occasion for this. 2 = *bebop. -v. (-pp-) dance, esp. to pop music. bopper n. [abbreviation]
bop2 colloq. -v. (-pp-) hit or punch, esp. lightly. -n. esp. light blow or hit. [imitative]
boracic adj. of borax.
boracic acid n. = *boric acid.
borage n. plant with leaves used as flavouring. [French ultimately from Arabic]
borax n. salt used in making glass and china, and as an antiseptic. [French ultimately from Persian]
Bordeaux n. (pl. same) wine (esp. red) from the Bordeaux district in SW France.
border -n. 1 edge or boundary, or the part near it. 2 a line or region separating two countries. b (the Border) boundary between Scotland and England (usu. the Borders), or N. Ireland and the Irish Republic. 3 esp. ornamental strip round an edge. 4 long narrow flower-bed (herbaceous border). -v. 1 be a border to. 2 provide with a border. 3 (usu. foll. by on, upon) a adjoin; come close to being. b resemble. [French from Germanic: related to *board]
Border collie n. sheepdog of the North Country.
borderer n. person living near a border.
borderland n. 1 district near a border. 2 condition between two extremes. 3 area for debate.
borderline -n. 1 line dividing two conditions. 2 line marking a boundary. -adj. 1 on the borderline. 2 barely acceptable.
Border terrier n. small rough-haired terrier.
bore1 -v. (-ring) 1 make (a hole), esp. with a revolving tool. 2 make a hole in, hollow out. -n. 1 hollow of a firearm barrel or of a cylinder in an internal-combustion engine. 2 diameter of this. 3 deep hole made esp. to find water. [Old English]
bore2 -n. tiresome or dull person or thing. -v. (-ring) weary by tedious talk or dullness. bored adj. boring adj. [origin unknown]
bore3 n. high tidal wave in an estuary. [Scandinavian]
bore4 past of *bear1.
boredom n. state of being bored. [from *bore2]
boric acid n. acid derived from borax, used as an antiseptic.
born adj. 1 existing as a result of birth. 2 a of natural ability or quality (a born leader). b (usu. foll. by to + infin.) destined (born lucky; born to be king). 3 (in comb.) of a certain status by birth (French-born; well-born). [past part. of *bear1]
born-again attrib. adj. converted (esp. to fundamentalist Christianity).
borne past part. of *bear1. -adj. (in comb.) carried by (airborne).
boron n. non-metallic usu. crystalline element. [from *borax, after carbon]
borough n. 1 a town represented in the House of Commons. b town or district granted the status of a borough. 2 hist. town with a municipal corporation conferred by a royal charter. [Old English]
borrow v. 1 a acquire temporarily, promising or intending to return. b obtain money thus. 2 use (another's idea, invention, etc.); plagiarize. borrower n. [Old English]
Borstal n. hist. residential institution for youth custody. [Borstal in Kent]
Usage This term has now been replaced by detention centre and youth custody centre.
bortsch n. Russian soup of beetroot, cabbage, etc. [Russian]
borzoi n. large silky-coated dog. [Russian, = swift]
bosh n. & int. slang nonsense. [Turkish, = empty]
bosom n. 1 a person's (esp. woman's) breast. b colloq. each of a woman's breasts. c enclosure formed by the breast and arms. 2 emotional centre (bosom of one's family). [Old English]
bosom friend n. intimate friend.
boss1 colloq. -n. employer, manager, or supervisor. -v. (usu. foll. by about, around) give orders to; order about. [Dutch baas]
boss2 n. 1 round knob, stud, etc., esp. on the centre of a shield. 2 Archit. ornamental carving etc. at the junction of the ribs in a vault. [French]
bossa nova n. 1 dance like the samba. 2 music for this. [Portuguese, = new flair]
boss-eyed adj. colloq. 1 cross-eyed; blind in one eye. 2 crooked. [boss = bad shot, origin unknown]
bossy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. domineering. bossiness n.
bosun (also bo'sun) var. of *boatswain.
botany n. the study of plants. botanic adj. botanical adj. botanist n. [Greek botane plant]
botch (also bodge) -v. 1 bungle; do badly. 2 patch clumsily. -n. bungled or spoilt work. [origin unknown]
both -adj. & pron. the two, not only one (both boys; both the boys; both of the boys; I like both). -adv. with equal truth in two cases (is both hot and dry). [Old Norse]
bother -v. 1 trouble; worry, disturb. 2 (often foll. by about, with, or to + infin.) take the time or trouble (didn't bother to tell me; shan't bother with dessert). -n. 1 a person or thing that bothers. b minor nuisance. 2 trouble, worry. -int. expressing irritation. [Irish bodhraim deafen]
botheration n. & int. colloq. = *bother n., int.
bothersome adj. causing bother.
bottle -n. 1 container, esp. glass or plastic, for storing liquid. 2 amount filling it. 3 baby's feeding-bottle. 4 = *hot-water bottle. 5 metal cylinder for liquefied gas. 6 slang courage. -v. (-ling) 1 put into, or preserve in, bottles or jars. 2 (foll. by up) conceal or restrain (esp. a feeling). hit the bottle slang drink heavily. [medieval Latin: related to *butt4]
bottle bank n. place for depositing bottles for recycling.
bottle-feed v. feed (a baby) from a bottle as opposed to the breast.
bottle green adj. & n. (as adj. often hyphenated) dark green.
bottleneck n. 1 narrow congested area, esp. on a road. 2 impeding thing.
bottlenose dolphin n. dolphin with a bottle-shaped snout.
bottle party n. party to which guests bring bottles of drink.
bottom -n. 1 a lowest point or part. b base. c underneath part. d furthest or inmost part. 2 colloq. a buttocks. b seat of a chair etc. 3 a less honourable end of a table, class, etc. b person occupying this (he's bottom of the class). 4 ground below water. 5 basis or origin. 6 essential character. -adj. lowest, last. -v. 1 put a bottom to (a chair etc.). 2 find the extent of. 3 touch the bottom or lowest point (of). at bottom basically. be at the bottom of have caused. bottom out reach the lowest level. get to the bottom of fully investigate and explain. [Old English]
bottom drawer n. linen etc. stored by a woman for marriage.
bottomless adj. 1 without a bottom. 2 inexhaustible.
bottom line n. colloq. underlying truth; ultimate, esp. financial, criterion.
botulism n. poisoning caused by a bacillus in badly preserved food. [Latin botulus sausage]
bouclé n. 1 looped or curled yarn (esp. wool). 2 fabric made of this. [French, = curled]
boudoir n. woman's private room. [French bouder sulk]
bouffant adj. (of a dress, hair, etc.) puffed out. [French]
bougainvillaea n. tropical plant with large coloured bracts. [Bougainville, name of a navigator]
bough n. main branch of a tree. [Old English]
bought past and past part. of *buy.
bouillon n. clear broth. [French bouillir to boil]
boulder n. large smooth rock. [Scandinavian]
boule n. (also boules pronunc. same) French form of bowls played on rough ground. [French]
boulevard n. 1 broad tree-lined avenue. 2 esp. US broad main road. [French from German]
boult var. of *bolt2.
bounce -v. (-cing) 1 (cause to) rebound. 2 slang (of a cheque) be returned by a bank when there are no funds to meet it. 3 (foll. by about, up, in, out, etc.) jump, move, or rush boisterously. -n. 1 a rebound. b power of rebounding. 2 colloq. a swagger, self-confidence. b liveliness. bounce back recover well after a setback. bouncy adj. (-ier, -iest). [imitative]
bouncer n. 1 slang doorman ejecting troublemakers from a dancehall, club, etc. 2 = *bumper 3.
bouncing adj. (esp. of a baby) big and healthy.
bound1 -v. 1 spring, leap. 2 (of a ball etc.) bounce. -n. 1 springy leap. 2 bounce. [French bondir from Latin bombus hum]
bound2 -n. (usu. in pl.) 1 limitation; restriction. 2 border, boundary. -v. 1 limit. 2 be the boundary of. out of bounds outside a permitted area. [French from medieval Latin]
bound3 adj. 1 (usu. foll. by for) starting or having started (bound for stardom). 2 (in comb.) in a specified direction (northbound). [Old Norse, = ready]
bound4 past and past part. of *bind. bound to certain to (he's bound to come). bound up with closely associated with.
boundary n. (pl. -ies) 1 line marking the limits of an area etc. 2 Cricket hit crossing the limits of the field, scoring 4 or 6 runs. [related to *bound2]
bounden duty n. formal solemn responsibility. [archaic past part. of *bind]
bounder n. colloq. cad.
boundless adj. unlimited.
bounteous adj. poet. = *bountiful. [French: related to *bounty]
bountiful adj. 1 generous. 2 ample.
bounty n. (pl. -ies) 1 generosity. 2 reward, esp. from the State. 3 gift. [French from Latin bonus good]
bouquet n. 1 bunch of flowers, esp. professionally arranged. 2 scent of wine etc. 3 compliment. [French bois wood]
bouquet garni n. (pl. bouquets garnis) bunch or bag of herbs for seasoning.
bourbon n. US whisky from maize and rye. [Bourbon County, Kentucky]
bourgeois often derog. -adj. 1 a conventionally middle-class. b materialistic. 2 capitalist. -n. (pl. same) bourgeois person. [French]
bourgeoisie n. 1 capitalist class. 2 middle class. [French]
bourn n. small stream. [var. of *burn2]
bourse n. 1 (Bourse) Paris Stock Exchange. 2 money-market. [French: related to *purse]
bout n. 1 (often foll. by of) a spell (of work or activity). b attack (bout of flu). 2 wrestling- or boxing-match. [obsolete bought bending]
boutique n. small shop selling esp. fashionable clothes. [French]
bouzouki n. (pl. -s) Greek form of mandolin. [modern Greek]
bovine adj. 1 of cattle. 2 stupid, dull. [Latin bos ox]
bovine spongiform encephalopathy see *BSE.
bow1 -n. 1 a slip-knot with a double loop. b ribbon etc. so tied. 2 curved piece of wood etc. with a string stretched across its ends, for shooting arrows. 3 rod with horsehair stretched along its length, for playing the violin etc. 4 shallow curve or bend; thing of this form. -v. (also absol.) use a bow on (a violin etc.). [Old English]
bow2 -v. 1 incline the head or body, esp. in greeting or acknowledgement. 2 submit (bowed to the inevitable). 3 cause (the head etc.) to incline. -n. act of bowing. bow and scrape toady. bow down 1 bend or kneel esp. in submission or reverence. 2 make stoop; crush (bowed down by care). bow out 1 exit (esp. formally). 2 withdraw; retire. take a bow acknowledge applause. [Old English]
bow3 n. 1 (often in pl.) front end of a boat. 2 rower nearest this. [Low German or Dutch: related to *bough]
bowdlerize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) expurgate (a book etc.). bowdlerization n. [Bowdler, name of an expurgator of Shakespeare]
bowel n. 1 (often in pl.) = *intestine. 2 (in pl.) innermost parts. [Latin botulus sausage]
bower n. 1 arbour; summer-house. 2 poet. inner room. [Old English, = dwelling]
bowerbird n. Australasian bird, the male of which constructs elaborate runs.
bowie n. (in full bowie knife) a kind of long hunting-knife. [Bowie, name of an American soldier]
bowl1 n. 1 a usu. round deep basin for food or liquid. b contents of a bowl. 2 hollow part of a tobacco-pipe, spoon, etc. bowlful n. (pl. -s). [Old English]
bowl2 -n. 1 hard heavy ball, made with a bias to run in a curve. 2 (in pl.; usu. treated as sing.) game played with these on grass. 3 spell or turn of bowling in cricket. -v. 1 a roll (a ball etc.). b play bowls. 2 (also absol.) Cricket etc. a deliver (a ball, over, etc.). b (often foll. by out) dismiss (a batsman) by knocking down the wicket with a ball. 3 (often foll. by along) go along rapidly. bowl out Cricket etc. dismiss (a batsman or a side). bowl over 1 knock down. 2 colloq. impress greatly, overwhelm. [Latin bulla bubble]
bow-legs n.pl. bandy legs. bow-legged adj.
bowler1 n. 1 Cricket etc. player who bowls. 2 bowls-player.
bowler2 n. (in full bowler hat) man's hard round felt hat. [Bowler, name of a hatter]
bowline n. 1 rope from a ship's bow keeping the sail taut against the wind. 2 knot forming a non-slipping loop at the end of a rope.
bowling n. the game of skittles, tenpin bowling, or bowls.
bowling-alley n. 1 long enclosure for skittles or tenpin bowling. 2 building with these.
bowling-green n. lawn for playing bowls.
bowman n. archer.
bowsprit n. spar running forward from a ship's bow.
bowstring n. string of an archer's bow.
bow-tie n. necktie in the form of a bow.
bow-window n. curved bay window.
bow-wow -int. imitation of a dog's bark. -n. colloq. dog. [imitative]
box1 -n. 1 container, usu. flat-sided and firm. 2 amount contained in a box. 3 compartment, e.g. in a theatre or lawcourt. 4 receptacle or kiosk for a special purpose (often in comb.: money box; telephone box). 5 facility at a newspaper office for receiving replies to an advertisement. 6 (prec. by the) colloq. television. 7 enclosed area or space. 8 area of print enclosed by a border. 9 light shield for the genitals in cricket etc. 10 (prec. by the) Football colloq. penalty area. -v. 1 put in or provide with a box. 2 (foll. by in, up) confine. [Latin buxis: related to *box3]
box2 -v. 1 a take part in boxing. b fight (an opponent) at boxing. 2 slap (esp. a person's ears). -n. hard slap, esp. on the ears. [origin unknown]
box3 n. 1 small evergreen tree with dark green leaves. 2 its fine hard wood. [Latin buxus, Greek puxos]
Box and Cox n. two people sharing accommodation etc. in shifts. [names of characters in a play (1847)]
box camera n. simple box-shaped camera.
boxer n. 1 person who boxes, esp. as a sport. 2 medium-size short-haired dog with a puglike face.
boxer shorts n.pl. men's loose underpants like shorts.
box girder n. hollow girder square in cross-section.
boxing n. fighting with the fists, esp. as a sport.
Boxing Day n. first weekday after Christmas. [from *box1, from the custom of giving Christmas-boxes]
boxing glove n. each of a pair of heavily padded gloves worn in boxing.
box junction n. road area marked with a yellow grid, which a vehicle should enter only if its exit is clear.
box number n. number for replies to a private advertisement in a newspaper.
box office n. ticket-office at a theatre etc.
box pleat n. arrangement of parallel pleats folding in alternate directions.
boxroom n. small room for storing boxes, cases, etc.
box spring n. each of a set of vertical springs in a frame, e.g. in a mattress.
boxwood n. = *box3 2.
boxy adj. (-ier, -iest) cramped.
boy -n. 1 male child, son. 2 young man. 3 male servant etc. -int. expressing pleasure, surprise, etc. boyhood n. boyish adj. [origin uncertain]
boycott -v. 1 refuse to have social or commercial relations with (a person, country, etc.). 2 refuse to handle (goods). -n. such a refusal. [Capt. Boycott, so treated from 1880]
boyfriend n. person's regular male companion or lover.
boyo n. (pl. -s) Welsh & Ir. colloq. (esp. as a form of address) boy, mate.
boy scout n. = *scout n. 4.
BP abbr. 1 boiling-point. 2 blood pressure. 3 before the present (era). 4 British Petroleum. 5 British Pharmacopoeia.
Bq abbr. becquerel.
BR abbr. British Rail.
Br symb. bromine.
bra n. undergarment worn by women to support the breasts. [abbreviation]
brace -n. 1 device that clamps or fastens tightly. 2 timber etc. strengthening a framework. 3 (in pl.) straps supporting trousers from the shoulders. 4 wire device for straightening the teeth. 5 (pl. same) pair (esp. of game). 6 rope for trimming a sail. 7 connecting mark { or } in printing. -v. (-cing) 1 make steady by supporting. 2 fasten tightly to make firm. 3 (esp. as bracing adj.) invigorate, refresh. 4 (often refl.) prepare for a difficulty, shock, etc. [Latin bracchia arms]
brace and bit n. revolving tool for boring, with a D-shaped central handle.
bracelet n. 1 ornamental band or chain worn on the wrist or arm. 2 slang handcuff.
brachiosaurus n. (pl. -ruses) plant-eating dinosaur with forelegs longer than its hind legs. [Latin from Greek brakhion arm, sauros lizard]
bracken n. 1 large coarse fern. 2 mass of these. [Old Norse]
bracket -n. 1 (esp. angled) support projecting from a vertical surface. 2 shelf fixed to a wall with this. 3 each of a pair of marks () [] {} enclosing words or figures. 4 group or classification (income bracket). -v. (-t-) 1 enclose in brackets. 2 group or classify together. [Latin bracae breeches]
brackish adj. (of water etc.) slightly salty. [Low German or Dutch]
bract n. leaf-like and often brightly coloured part of a plant, growing before the flower. [Latin bractea thin sheet]
brad n. thin flat nail with a head on only one side. [Old Norse]
bradawl n. small pointed tool for boring holes by hand.
brae n. Scot. hillside. [Old Norse]
brag -v. (-gg-) talk boastfully. -n. 1 card-game like poker. 2 boastful statement or talk. [origin unknown]
braggart -n. boastful person. -adj. boastful.
Brahma n. 1 Hindu Creator. 2 supreme divine Hindu reality. [Sanskrit, = creator]
Brahman n. (also brahman) (pl. -s) 1 (also Brahmin) member of the highest or priestly Hindu caste. 2 = *Brahma 2. Brahmanic adj. Brahmanism n.
braid -n. 1 woven band as edging or trimming. 2 US plait of hair. -v. 1 US plait. 2 trim with braid. braiding n. [Old English]
Braille -n. system of writing and printing for the blind, with patterns of raised dots. -v. (-ling) print or transcribe in Braille. [Braille, name of its inventor]
brain -n. 1 organ of soft nervous tissue in the skull of vertebrates, the centre of sensation and of intellectual and nervous activity. 2 a colloq. intelligent person. b (often in pl.) intelligence. 3 (usu. in pl.; prec. by the) colloq. cleverest person in a group; mastermind. 4 electronic device functioning like a brain. -v. 1 dash out the brains of. 2 colloq. strike hard on the head. on the brain colloq. obsessively in one's thoughts. [Old English]
brainchild n. colloq. person's clever idea or invention.
brain death n. irreversible brain damage causing the end of independent respiration, regarded as indicative of death. brain-dead adj.
brain drain n. colloq. loss of skilled personnel by emigration.
brainless adj. foolish.
brainpower n. mental ability or intelligence.
brainstorm n. 1 sudden mental disturbance. 2 colloq. mental lapse. 3 US brainwave. 4 pooling of spontaneous ideas about a problem etc. brainstorming n. (in sense 4).
brains trust n. group of experts answering questions, usu. publicly and impromptu.
brainwash v. implant ideas or esp. ideology into (a person) by repetition etc. brainwashing n.
brainwave n. 1 (usu. in pl.) electrical impulse in the brain. 2 colloq. sudden bright idea.
brainy adj. (-ier, -iest) intellectually clever.
braise v. (-sing) stew slowly with a little liquid in a closed container. [French braise live coals]
brake1 -n. 1 (often in pl.) device for stopping or slowing a wheel, vehicle, etc. 2 thing that impedes. -v. (-king) 1 apply a brake. 2 slow or stop with a brake. [probably obsolete brake = curb]
brake2 n. large estate car. [var. of *break]
brake3 -n. 1 toothed instrument for crushing flax and hemp. 2 (in full brake harrow) heavy harrow. -v. (-king) crush (flax or hemp). [Low German or Dutch: related to *break]
brake4 n. thicket or clump of brushwood. [Old English]
brake drum n. cylinder attached to a wheel, on which the brake shoes press to brake.
brake horsepower n. power of an engine measured by the force needed to brake it.
brake lining n. strip of fabric increasing the friction of a brake shoe.
brake shoe n. long curved block which presses on a brake drum to brake.
bramble n. wild thorny shrub, esp. the blackberry. brambly adj. [Old English]
brambling n. the speckled finch. [German: related to *bramble]
bran n. grain husks separated from flour. [French]
branch -n. 1 limb of a tree or bough. 2 lateral extension or subdivision, esp. of a river, road, or railway. 3 subdivision of a family, knowledge, etc. 4 local office etc. of a large business. -v. (often foll. by off) 1 diverge. 2 divide into branches. branch out extend one's field of interest. [Latin branca paw]
brand -n. 1 a particular make of goods. b identifying trade mark, label, etc. 2 (usu. foll. by of) characteristic kind (brand of humour). 3 identifying mark burned esp. on livestock. 4 iron used for this. 5 piece of burning or charred wood. 6 stigma; mark of disgrace. 7 poet. torch. -v. 1 mark with a hot iron. 2 stigmatize (branded him a liar). 3 impress unforgettably. 4 assign a trademark etc. to. [Old English]
brandish v. wave or flourish as a threat or display. [French from Germanic]
brand-new adj. completely new.
brandy n. (pl. -ies) strong alcoholic spirit distilled from wine or fermented fruit juice. [Dutch brandewijn]
brandy butter n. mixture of brandy, butter, and sugar.
brandy-snap n. crisp rolled gingerbread wafer usu. filled with cream.
bran-tub n. lucky dip with prizes hidden in bran.
brash adj. vulgarly self-assertive; impudent. brashly adv. brashness n. [dial.]
brass -n. 1 yellow alloy of copper and zinc. 2 brass objects collectively. 3 brass wind instruments. 4 slang money. 5 brass memorial tablet. 6 colloq. effrontery. -adj. made of brass. brassed off slang fed up. [Old English]
brass band n. band of brass instruments.
brasserie n. restaurant, orig. one serving beer with food. [French brasser brew]
brassica n. plant of the cabbage family. [Latin, = cabbage]
brassière n. = *bra. [French]
brass monkey n. coarse slang used in various phrases to indicate extreme cold.
brass-rubbing n. 1 practice of taking impressions by rubbing heelball etc. over paper laid on engraved brasses. 2 impression obtained by this.
brass tacks n.pl. slang essential details.
brassy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like brass. 2 impudent. 3 vulgarly showy. 4 loud and blaring.
brat n. usu. derog. child, esp. an ill-behaved one. [origin unknown]
bravado n. show of boldness. [Spanish]
brave -adj. 1 able or ready to face and endure danger, disgrace, or pain. 2 formal splendid, spectacular. -n. American Indian warrior. -v. (-ving) face bravely or defiantly. bravely adv. braveness n. bravery n. [ultimately Latin barbarus barbarian]
bravo -int. expressing approval. -n. (pl. -s) cry of 'bravo'. [French from Italian]
bravura n. 1 brilliance of execution. 2 (often attrib.) passage of (esp. vocal) music requiring brilliant technique. [Italian]
brawl -n. noisy quarrel or fight. -v. 1 engage in a brawl. 2 (of a stream) run noisily. [Provençal]
brawn n. 1 muscular strength. 2 muscle; lean flesh. 3 jellied meat made from a pig's head. brawny adj. (-ier, -iest). [French from Germanic]
bray -n. 1 cry of a donkey. 2 harsh sound like this. -v. 1 make a bray. 2 utter harshly. [French braire]
braze v. (-zing) solder with an alloy of brass and zinc. [French braser]
brazen -adj. 1 shameless; insolent. 2 of or like brass. 3 harsh in sound. -v. (foll. by out) face or undergo defiantly (brazen it out). brazenly adv. [Old English]
brazier1 n. metal pan or stand holding burning coals etc. [French: related to *braise]
brazier2 n. worker in brass. [probably from *brass]
Brazil n. 1 tall S. American tree. 2 (in full Brazil nut) its large three-sided nut. [Brazil in S. America]
breach -n. 1 (often foll. by of) breaking or non-observation of a law, contract, etc. 2 breaking of relations; quarrel. 3 opening, gap. -v. 1 break through; make a gap in. 2 break (a law, contract, etc.). step into the breach help in a crisis, esp. as a replacement. [Germanic: related to *break]
breach of promise n. breaking of a promise, esp. to marry.
breach of the peace n. crime of causing a public disturbance.
bread -n. 1 baked dough of flour and water, usu. leavened with yeast. 2 necessary food. 3 slang money. -v. coat with breadcrumbs for cooking. [Old English]
bread and butter -n. one's livelihood. -attrib. adj. (bread-and-butter) done or produced to earn a basic living.
breadboard n. 1 board for cutting bread on. 2 board for making an experimental model of an electric circuit.
breadcrumb n. small fragment of bread, esp. (in pl.) for use in cooking.
breadfruit n. 1 fruit which resembles new bread when roasted. 2 tropical evergreen tree bearing it.
breadline n. subsistence level (esp. on the breadline).
bread sauce n. white sauce thickened with breadcrumbs.
breadth n. 1 distance or measurement from side to side of a thing. 2 freedom from prejudice or intolerance. [Old English: related to *broad]
breadwinner n. person who works to support a family.
break -v. (past broke; past part. broken) 1 a separate into pieces under a blow or strain; shatter. b make or become inoperative. c break a bone in or dislocate (part of the body). 2 a interrupt (broke our journey). b have an interval (broke for tea). 3 fail to keep (a law, promise, etc.). 4 a make or become subdued or weak; (cause to) yield; destroy. b weaken the effect of (a fall, blow, etc.). c = break in 3c. 5 surpass (a record). 6 (foll. by with) end a friendship with (a person etc.). 7 a be no longer subject to (a habit). b (foll. by of) free (a person) from a habit (broke them of their addiction). 8 reveal or be revealed (broke the news; story broke). 9 a (of fine weather) change suddenly. b (of waves) curl over and foam. c (of the day) dawn. d (of clouds) move apart. e (of a storm) begin violently. 10 Electr. disconnect (a circuit). 11 a (of the voice) change with emotion. b (of a boy's voice) change at puberty. 12 a (often foll. by up) divide (a set etc.). b change (a banknote etc.) for coins. 13 ruin financially (see also *broke adj.). 14 penetrate (e.g. a safe) by force. 15 decipher (a code). 16 make (a way, path, etc.) by force. 17 burst forth (sun broke through). 18 a (of troops) disperse in confusion. b rupture (ranks). 19 a (usu. foll. by free, loose, out, etc.) escape by a sudden effort. b escape or emerge from (prison, bounds, cover, etc.). 20 Tennis etc. win a game against (an opponent's service). 21 (of boxers etc.) come out of a clinch. 22 Billiards etc. disperse the balls at the start of a game. -n. 1 a act or instance of breaking. b point of breaking; gap. 2 interval, interruption; pause. 3 sudden dash (esp. to escape). 4 colloq. piece of luck; fair chance. 5 Cricket deflection of a bowled ball on bouncing. 6 Billiards etc. a series of points scored during one turn. b opening shot dispersing the balls. break away make or become free or separate. break the back of do the hardest or greatest part of. break down 1 a fail mechanically; cease to function. b (of human relationships etc.) fail, collapse. c fail in (esp. mental) health. d collapse in tears or emotion. 2 a demolish, destroy. b suppress (resistance). c force to yield. 3 analyse into components. break even make neither profit nor loss. break a person's heart see *heart. break the ice begin to overcome formality or shyness. break in 1 enter by force, esp. with criminal intent. 2 interrupt. 3 a accustom to a habit etc. b wear etc. until comfortable. c tame (an animal); accustom (a horse) to a saddle etc. break in on disturb; interrupt. break into 1 enter forcibly. 2 a burst forth with (a song, laughter, etc.). b change pace for (a faster one) (broke into a gallop). 3 interrupt. break off 1 detach by breaking. 2 bring to an end. 3 cease talking etc. break open open forcibly. break out 1 escape by force, esp. from prison. 2 begin suddenly. 3 (foll. by in) become covered in (a rash etc.). 4 exclaim. break up 1 break into small pieces. 2 disperse; disband. 3 end the school term. 4 (cause to) terminate a relationship; disband. break wind release gas from the anus. [Old English]
breakable -adj. easily broken. -n. (esp. in pl.) breakable thing.
breakage n. 1 a broken thing. b damage caused by breaking. 2 act or instance of breaking.
breakaway n. (often attrib.) breaking away; secession (breakaway group).
break-dancing n. acrobatic style of street-dancing.
breakdown n. 1 a mechanical failure. b loss of (esp. mental) health. 2 collapse (breakdown of communication). 3 analysis (of statistics etc.).
breaker n. 1 heavy breaking wave. 2 person or thing that breaks something, esp. disused machinery.
breakfast -n. first meal of the day. -v. have breakfast.
break-in n. illegal forced entry, esp. with criminal intent.
breaking and entering n. (formerly) the illegal entering of a building with intent to commit a felony.
breaking-point n. point of greatest strain.
breakneck attrib. adj. (of speed) dangerously fast.
break-out n. forcible escape.
breakthrough n. 1 major advance or discovery. 2 act of breaking through an obstacle etc.
breakup n. 1 disintegration or collapse. 2 dispersal.
breakwater n. barrier breaking the force of waves.
bream n. (pl. same) 1 yellowish arch-backed freshwater fish. 2 (in full sea bream) similar marine fish. [French from Germanic]
breast -n. 1 a either of two milk-secreting organs on a woman's chest. b corresponding part of a man's body. 2 a chest. b corresponding part of an animal. 3 part of a garment that covers the breast. 4 breast as a source of nourishment or emotion. -v. 1 contend with. 2 reach the top of (a hill). make a clean breast of confess fully. [Old English]
breastbone n. thin flat vertical bone in the chest between the ribs.
breast-feed v. feed (a baby) from the breast.
breastplate n. armour covering the breast.
breast-stroke n. swimming stroke made by extending both arms forward and sweeping them back.
breastwork n. low temporary defence or parapet.
breath n. 1 a air drawn into or expelled from the lungs. b one respiration of air. c breath as perceived by the senses. 2 a slight movement of air. b whiff (of perfume etc.). 3 whisper, murmur (esp. of scandal). catch one's breath 1 cease breathing momentarily in surprise etc. 2 rest to restore normal breathing. hold one's breath cease breathing temporarily. out of breath gasping for air, esp. after exercise. take one's breath away surprise, delight, etc. under one's breath in a whisper. [Old English]
Breathalyser n. (also -lyzer) propr. instrument for measuring alcohol levels in the breath exhaled into it. breathalyse v. (also -lyze) (-sing or -zing). [from *breath, *analyse]
breathe v. (-thing) 1 draw air into and expel it from the lungs. 2 be or seem alive. 3 a utter or sound (esp. quietly). b express (breathed defiance). 4 pause. 5 send out or take in (as if) with the breath (breathed new life into them; breathed whisky). 6 (of wine etc.) be exposed to the air. breathe again (or freely) feel relief.
breather n. 1 colloq. brief pause for rest. 2 brief period in the fresh air.
breathing-space n. time to recover; pause.
breathless adj. 1 panting, out of breath. 2 holding the breath. 3 still, windless. breathlessly adv.
breathtaking adj. astounding; awe-inspiring. breathtakingly adv.
breath test n. test with a Breathalyser.
bred past and past part. of *breed.
breech n. back part of a rifle or gun barrel. [Old English]
breech birth n. (also breech delivery) delivery of a baby with the buttocks or feet foremost.
breeches n.pl. short trousers, esp. fastened below the knee.
breeches buoy n. lifebuoy with canvas breeches for the user's legs.
breed -v. (past and past part. bred) 1 (of animals) produce young. 2 propagate; raise (animals). 3 yield; result in. 4 arise; spread. 5 bring up; train. 6 create (fissile material) by nuclear reaction. -n. 1 stock of similar animals or plants within a species, usu. developed by deliberate selection. 2 race; lineage. 3 sort, kind. breeder n. [Old English]
breeder reactor n. nuclear reactor creating surplus fissile material.
breeding n. 1 raising of offspring; propagation. 2 social behaviour; ancestry.
breeze1 -n. 1 gentle wind. 2 colloq. quarrel. 3 esp. US colloq. easy task. -v. (-zing) (foll. by in, out, along, etc.) colloq. saunter casually. [probably Spanish and Portuguese briza]
breeze2 n. small cinders. [French: related to *braise]
breeze-block n. lightweight building block, esp. of breeze mixed with sand and cement.
breezy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 slightly windy. 2 colloq. cheerful, light-hearted, casual.
Bren n. (in full Bren gun) lightweight quick-firing machine-gun. [Brno in Czechoslovakia, Enfield in England]
brent n. (in full brent-goose) small migratory goose. [origin unknown]
brethren see *brother.
Breton -n. 1 native of Brittany. 2 Celtic language of Brittany. -adj. of Brittany, its people, or language. [French, = *Briton]
breve n. 1 Mus. note twice the length of a semibreve. 2 mark ( ) indicating a short or unstressed vowel. [var. of *brief]
breviary n. (pl. -ies) book containing the Roman Catholic daily office. [Latin: related to *brief]
brevity n. 1 economy of expression; conciseness. 2 shortness (of time etc.). [Anglo-French: related to *brief]
brew -v. 1 a make (beer etc.) by infusion, boiling, and fermentation. b make (tea etc.) by infusion. 2 undergo these processes. 3 gather force; threaten (storm is brewing). 4 concoct (a plan etc.). -n. 1 liquid or amount brewed; concoction. 2 process of brewing. brew up make tea. brewer n. [Old English]
brewery n. (pl. -ies) factory for brewing beer etc.
brew-up n. instance of making tea.
briar1 var. of *brier1.
briar2 var. of *brier2.
bribe -v. (-bing) (often foll. by to + infin.) persuade to act improperly in one's favour by a gift of money etc. -n. money or services offered in bribing. bribery n. [French briber beg]
bric-à-brac n. (also bric-a-brac) cheap ornaments, trinkets, etc. [French]
brick -n. 1 a small usu. rectangular block of fired or sun-dried clay used in building. b material of this. 2 child's toy block. 3 brick-shaped thing. 4 slang generous or loyal person. -v. (foll. by in, up) close or block with brickwork. -adj. 1 built of brick (brick wall). 2 (also brick-red) dull red. [Low German or Dutch]
brickbat n. 1 piece of brick, esp. as a missile. 2 insult.
brickie n. slang bricklayer.
bricklayer n. person who builds with bricks, esp. for a living. bricklaying n.
brickwork n. building or work in brick.
brickyard n. place where bricks are made.
bridal adj. of a bride or wedding. [Old English]
bride n. woman on her wedding day and during the period just before and after it. [Old English]
bridegroom n. man on his wedding day and during the period just before and after it. [Old English]
bridesmaid n. girl or unmarried woman attending a bride at her wedding.
bridge1 -n. 1 a structure providing a way across a river, road, railway, etc. b thing joining or connecting. 2 operational superstructure on a ship. 3 upper bony part of the nose. 4 piece of wood on a violin etc. over which the strings are stretched. 5 = *bridgework. -v. (-ging) 1 be or make a bridge over. 2 reduce (a gap, deficiency, etc.). [Old English]
bridge2 n. card-game derived from whist. [origin unknown]
bridgehead n. fortified position held on the enemy's side of a river etc.
bridge roll n. small soft bread roll.
bridgework n. Dentistry dental structure covering a gap, joined to the teeth on either side.
bridging loan n. loan to cover the interval between buying a house etc. and selling another.
bridle -n. 1 headgear for controlling a horse, including reins and bit. 2 restraining thing. -v. (-ling) 1 put a bridle on. 2 curb, restrain. 3 (often foll. by up) express anger, offence, etc., esp. by throwing up the head and drawing in the chin. [Old English]
bridle-path n. (also bridle-way) rough path for riders or walkers.
Brie n. a kind of soft cheese. [Brie in N. France]
brief -adj. 1 of short duration. 2 concise; abrupt, brusque. 3 scanty (brief skirt). -n. 1 (in pl.) short pants. 2 a summary of a case drawn up for counsel. b piece of work for a barrister. 3 instructions for a task. 4 papal letter on discipline. -v. 1 instruct (a barrister) by brief. 2 inform or instruct in advance. hold a brief for argue in favour of. in brief to sum up. briefly adv. briefness n. [Latin brevis short]
briefcase n. flat document case.
brier1 n. (also briar) wild rose or other prickly bush. [Old English]
brier2 n. (also briar) 1 white heath of S. Europe. 2 tobacco pipe made from its root. [French bruyère]
Brig. abbr. Brigadier.
brig1 n. two-masted square-rigged ship. [abbreviation of *brigantine]
brig2 n. Scot. & N.Engl. bridge. [var. of *bridge1]
brigade n. 1 military unit, usu. three battalions, as part of a division. 2 group organized for a special purpose. [Italian briga strife]
brigadier n. 1 officer commanding a brigade. 2 staff officer of similar standing.
brigand n. member of a robber band; bandit. brigandage n. [Italian brigante: related to *brigade]
brigantine n. two-masted ship with a square-rigged foremast and a fore-and-aft rigged mainmast. [French or Italian: related to *brigand]
bright -adj. 1 emitting or reflecting much light; shining. 2 intense, vivid. 3 clever. 4 cheerful. -adv. esp. poet. brightly. brightly adv. brightness n. [Old English]
brighten v. make or become brighter.
Bright's disease n. kidney disease. [Bright, name of a physician]
brill1 n. (pl. same) European flat-fish. [origin unknown]
brill2 adj. colloq. = *brilliant adj. 4. [abbreviation]
brilliant -adj. 1 very bright; sparkling. 2 outstandingly talented. 3 showy. 4 colloq. excellent. -n. diamond of the finest cut with many facets. brilliance n. brilliantly adv. [French briller shine, from Italian]
brilliantine n. dressing for making the hair glossy. [French: related to *brilliant]
brim -n. 1 edge or lip of a vessel. 2 projecting edge of a hat. -v. (-mm-) fill or be full to the brim. brim over overflow. [origin unknown]
brim-full adj. (also brimful) filled to the brim.
brimstone n. archaic sulphur. [from *burn1, *stone]
brindled adj. (esp. of domestic animals) brown or tawny with streaks of another colour. [Scandinavian]
brine n. 1 water saturated or strongly impregnated with salt. 2 sea water. [Old English]
bring v. (past and past part. brought) 1 come carrying; lead, accompany; convey. 2 cause or result in (war brings misery). 3 be sold for; produce as income. 4 a prefer (a charge). b initiate (legal action). 5 cause to become or to reach a state (brings me alive; cannot bring myself to agree). 6 adduce (evidence, an argument, etc.). bring about cause to happen. bring back call to mind. bring down 1 cause to fall. 2 lower (a price). bring forth 1 give birth to. 2 cause. bring forward 1 move to an earlier time. 2 transfer from the previous page or account. 3 draw attention to. bring home to cause to realize fully. bring the house down receive rapturous applause. bring in 1 introduce. 2 yield as income or profit. bring off achieve successfully. bring on cause to happen, appear, or make progress. bring out 1 emphasize; make evident. 2 publish. bring over convert to one's own side. bring round 1 restore to consciousness. 2 persuade. bring through aid (a person) through adversity, esp. illness. bring to restore to consciousness (brought him to). bring up 1 rear (a child). 2 vomit. 3 call attention to. 4 (absol.) stop suddenly. [Old English]
bring-and-buy sale n. charity sale at which people bring items for sale and buy those brought by others.
brink n. 1 extreme edge of land before a precipice, river, etc. 2 furthest point before danger, discovery, etc. on the brink of about to experience or suffer; in imminent danger of. [Old Norse]
brinkmanship n. pursuit (esp. habitual) of danger etc. to the brink of catastrophe.
briny -adj. (-ier, -iest) of brine or the sea; salty. -n. (prec. by the) slang the sea.
briquette n. block of compressed coal-dust as fuel. [French diminutive: related to *brick]
brisk -adj. 1 quick, lively, keen (brisk pace, trade). 2 enlivening (brisk wind). -v. (often foll. by up) make or grow brisk. briskly adv. briskness n. [probably French *brusque]
brisket n. animal's breast, esp. as a joint of meat. [French]
brisling n. small herring or sprat. [Norwegian and Danish]
bristle -n. short stiff hair, esp. one on an animal's back, used in brushes. -v. (-ling) 1 a (of hair) stand upright. b make (hair) do this. 2 show irritation. 3 (usu. foll. by with) be covered or abundant (in). bristly adj. (-ier, -iest). [Old English]
Brit n. colloq. British person. [abbreviation]
Britannia n. personification of Britain, esp. as a helmeted woman with shield and trident. [Latin]
Britannia metal n. silvery alloy of tin, antimony, and copper.
Britannic adj. (esp. in His or Her Britannic Majesty) of Britain.
Briticism n. idiom used only in Britain. [after Gallicism]
British -adj. of Great Britain, the British Commonwealth, or their people. -n. (prec. by the; treated as pl.) the British people. [Old English]
British English n. English as used in Great Britain.
British Legion n. = *Royal British Legion.
British summer time n. = *summer time.
British thermal unit n. amount of heat needed to raise 1 lb of water through one degree Fahrenheit, equivalent to 1.055 x 103 joules.
Briton n. 1 inhabitant of S. Britain before the Roman conquest. 2 native or inhabitant of Great Britain. [Latin Britto -onis]
brittle adj. hard and fragile; apt to break. brittlely adv. (also brittly). [Old English]
brittle-bone disease n. = *osteoporosis.
broach -v. 1 raise for discussion. 2 pierce (a cask) to draw liquor. 3 open and start using. -n. 1 bit for boring. 2 roasting-spit. [Latin broccus projecting]
broad -adj. 1 large in extent from one side to the other; wide. 2 in breadth (two metres broad). 3 extensive (broad acres). 4 full and clear (broad daylight). 5 explicit (broad hint). 6 general (broad intentions, facts). 7 tolerant, liberal (broad view). 8 coarse (broad humour). 9 markedly regional (broad Scots). -n. 1 broad part (broad of the back). 2 US slang woman. 3 (the Broads) large areas of water in E. Anglia, formed where rivers widen. broadly adv. broadness n. [Old English]
broad bean n. 1 bean with large edible flat seeds. 2 one such seed.
broadcast -v. (past and past part. broadcast) 1 transmit by radio or television. 2 take part in such a transmission. 3 scatter (seed etc.). 4 disseminate (information) widely. -n. radio or television programme or transmission. broadcaster n. broadcasting n.
broadcloth n. fine cloth of wool, cotton, or silk.
broaden v. make or become broader.
broad gauge n. railway track with a wider than standard gauge.
broad-leaved adj. (of a tree) deciduous and hard-timbered.
broadloom adj. (esp. of carpet) woven in broad widths.
broad-minded adj. tolerant, liberal.
broadsheet n. 1 large-sized newspaper. 2 large sheet of paper printed on one side only.
broadside n. 1 vigorous verbal attack. 2 simultaneous firing of all guns from one side of a ship. 3 side of a ship above the water between the bow and quarter. broadside on sideways on.
broadsword n. broad-bladed sword, for cutting rather than thrusting.
brocade -n. rich fabric woven with a raised pattern. -v. (-ding) weave in this way. [Italian brocco twisted thread]
broccoli n. brassica with greenish flower-heads. [Italian]
brochure n. pamphlet or booklet, esp. with descriptive information. [French brocher stitch]
broderie anglaise n. open embroidery on white linen etc. [French, = English embroidery]
brogue1 n. 1 strong outdoor shoe with ornamental perforations. 2 rough shoe of untanned leather. [Gaelic and Irish brog from Old Norse]
brogue2 n. marked accent, esp. Irish. [perhaps related to *brogue1]
broil v. esp. US 1 grill (meat). 2 make or become very hot, esp. from the sun. [French bruler burn]
broiler n. young chicken for broiling or roasting.
broke past of *break. -predic. adj. colloq. having no money.
broke past of *break. -predic. adj. colloq. having no money.
broken past part. of *break. -adj. 1 having been broken. 2 reduced to despair; beaten. 3 (of language) badly spoken, esp. by a foreigner. 4 interrupted (broken sleep).
broken-down adj. 1 worn out by age, use, etc. 2 not functioning.
broken-hearted adj. overwhelmed with grief.
broken home n. family disrupted by divorce or separation.
broker n. 1 agent; middleman. 2 member of the Stock Exchange dealing in stocks and shares. 3 official appointed to sell or appraise distrained goods. broking n. [Anglo-French]
Usage In sense 2, brokers have officially been called broker-dealers in the UK since Oct. 1986, and entitled to act as agents and principals in share dealings.
brokerage n. broker's fee or commission.
brolly n. (pl. -ies) colloq. umbrella. [abbreviation]
bromide n. 1 any binary compound of bromine. 2 trite remark. 3 reproduction or proof on paper coated with silver bromide emulsion.
bromine n. poisonous liquid element with a choking smell. [Greek bromos stink]
bronchial adj. of the bronchi (see *bronchus) or of the smaller tubes into which they divide.
bronchitis n. inflammation of the mucous membrane in the bronchial tubes.
bronchus n. (pl. -chi) either of the two main divisions of the windpipe. [Latin from Greek]
bronco n. (pl. -s) wild or half-tamed horse of the western US. [Spanish, = rough]
brontosaurus n. (pl. -ruses) large plant-eating dinosaur with a long whiplike tail. [Greek bronte thunder, sauros lizard]
bronze -n. 1 alloy of copper and tin. 2 its brownish colour. 3 thing of bronze, esp. a sculpture. -adj. made of or coloured like bronze. -v. (-zing) make or become brown; tan. [French from Italian]
Bronze Age n. Archaeol. period when weapons and tools were usu. made of bronze.
bronze medal n. medal, usu. awarded as third prize.
brooch n. ornamental hinged pin. [French broche: related to *broach]
brood -n. 1 young of esp. a bird born or hatched at one time. 2 colloq. children in a family. -v. 1 worry or ponder (esp. resentfully). 2 (of a bird) sit on eggs to hatch them. [Old English]
broody adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of a hen) wanting to brood. 2 sullenly thoughtful. 3 colloq. (of a woman) wanting pregnancy.
brook1 n. small stream. [Old English]
brook2 v. (usu. with neg.) literary tolerate, allow. [Old English]
broom n. 1 long-handled brush for sweeping. 2 shrub with bright yellow flowers. [Old English]
broomstick n. handle of a broom.
Bros. abbr. Brothers (esp. in the name of a firm).
broth n. thin soup of meat or fish stock. [Old English]
brothel n. premises for prostitution. [originally = worthless fellow, from Old English]
brother n. 1 man or boy in relation to his siblings. 2 close male friend or associate. 3 (pl. also brethren) a member of a male religious order, esp. a monk. b fellow Christian etc. 4 fellow human being. brotherly adj. [Old English]
brother german see *german.
brotherhood n. 1 relationship between brothers. 2 association of people with a common interest. 3 community of feeling between human beings.
brother-in-law n. (pl. brothers-in-law) 1 one's wife's or husband's brother. 2 one's sister's or sister-in-law's husband.
brought past and past part. of *bring.
brouhaha n. commotion; sensation. [French]
brow n. 1 forehead. 2 eyebrow. 3 summit of a hill etc. 4 edge of a cliff etc. [Old English]
browbeat v. (past -beat; past part. -beaten) intimidate, bully.
brown -adj. 1 having the colour of dark wood or rich soil. 2 dark-skinned or suntanned. 3 (of bread) made from wholemeal or wheatmeal flour. -n. 1 brown colour or pigment. 2 brown clothes or material. -v. make or become brown. browned off colloq. fed up, disheartened. brownish adj. [Old English]
brown bear n. large N. American brown bear.
brown coal n. = *lignite.
Brownie n. 1 (in full Brownie Guide) junior Guide. 2 (brownie) small square of chocolate cake with nuts. 3 (brownie) benevolent elf.
Brownie point n. colloq. notional mark awarded for good conduct etc.
browning n. additive to colour gravy.
brown owl n. 1 any of various owls, esp. the tawny owl. 2 (Brown Owl) adult leader of Brownie Guides.
brown rice n. unpolished rice.
brown sugar n. unrefined or partially refined sugar.
browse -v. (-sing) 1 read desultorily or look over goods for sale. 2 (often foll. by on) feed on leaves, twigs, etc. -n. 1 twigs, shoots, etc. as fodder. 2 act of browsing. [French brost bud]
brucellosis n. bacterial disease, esp. of cattle. [Sir D. Bruce, name of a physician]
bruise -n. 1 discolouration of the skin caused esp. by a blow. 2 similar damage on a fruit etc. -v. (-sing) 1 a inflict a bruise on. b hurt mentally. 2 be susceptible to bruising. [originally = crush, from Old English]
bruiser n. colloq. 1 large tough-looking person. 2 professional boxer.
bruit v. (often foll. by abroad, about) spread (a report or rumour). [French, = noise]
brunch n. combined breakfast and lunch. [portmanteau word]
brunette n. woman with dark brown hair. [French diminutive]
brunt n. chief impact of an attack, task, etc. (esp. bear the brunt of). [origin unknown]
brush -n. 1 implement with bristles, hair, wire, etc. set into a block, for cleaning, painting, arranging the hair, etc. 2 act of brushing. 3 (usu. foll. by with) short esp. unpleasant encounter. 4 fox's bushy tail. 5 piece of carbon or metal as an electrical contact esp. with a moving part. 6 = *brushwood 2. -v. 1 sweep, scrub, treat, or tidy with a brush. 2 remove or apply with a brush. 3 graze in passing. brush aside dismiss curtly or lightly. brush off dismiss abruptly. brush up 1 clean up or smarten. 2 revise (a subject). [French]
brush-off n. abrupt dismissal.
brush-up n. act of brushing up.
brushwood n. 1 undergrowth, thicket. 2 cut or broken twigs etc.
brushwork n. 1 use of the brush in painting. 2 painter's style in this.
brusque adj. abrupt or offhand. brusquely adv. brusqueness n. [Italian brusco sour]
Brussels sprout n. 1 brassica with small cabbage-like buds on a stem. 2 such a bud. [Brussels in Belgium]
brutal adj. 1 savagely cruel. 2 harsh, merciless. brutality n. (pl. -ies). brutally adv. [French: related to *brute]
brutalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 make brutal. 2 treat brutally.
brute -n. 1 a brutal or violent person. b colloq. unpleasant person or difficult thing. 2 animal. -attrib. adj. 1 unthinking (brute force). 2 cruel; stupid; sensual. brutish adj. brutishly adv. brutishness n. [Latin brutus stupid]
bryony n. (pl. -ies) climbing plant with red berries. [Latin from Greek]
BS abbr. 1 Bachelor of Surgery. 2 British Standard(s).
B.Sc. abbr. Bachelor of Science.
BSE abbr. bovine spongiform encephalopathy, a usu. fatal cattle disease.
BSI abbr. British Standards Institution.
BST abbr. 1 British Summer Time. 2 bovine somatotrophin, a growth hormone added to cattle-feed to boost milk production.
BT abbr. British Telecom.
Bt. abbr. Baronet.
B.th.u. abbr. (also B.t.u., BTU, B.Th.U.) British thermal unit(s).
bubble -n. 1 a thin sphere of liquid enclosing air etc. b air-filled cavity in a liquid or solidified liquid. 2 transparent domed canopy. 3 visionary or unrealistic project. -v. (-ling) 1 rise in or send up bubbles. 2 make the sound of boiling. bubble over (often foll. by with) be exuberant. [imitative]
bubble and squeak n. cooked cabbage etc. fried with cooked potatoes.
bubble bath n. foaming preparation for adding to bath water.
bubble car n. small domed car.
bubble gum n. chewing-gum that can be blown into bubbles.
bubbly -adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having or like bubbles. 2 exuberant. -n. colloq. champagne.
bubo n. (pl. -es) inflamed swelling in the armpit or groin. [Greek boubon groin]
bubonic plague n. contagious disease with buboes.
buccaneer n. 1 pirate. 2 unscrupulous adventurer. buccaneering n. & adj. [French]
buck1 -n. 1 male deer, hare, rabbit, etc. 2 archaic dandy. 3 (attrib.) slang male. -v. 1 (of a horse) jump upwards with its back arched. 2 (usu. foll. by off) throw (a rider) in this way. 3 (usu. foll. by up) colloq. a cheer up. b hurry up; make an effort. [Old English]
buck2 n. US slang dollar. [origin unknown]
buck3 n. slang (in poker) article placed before the next dealer. pass the buck colloq. shift responsibility (to another). [origin unknown]
bucket -n. 1 a round open container with a handle, for carrying or drawing water etc. b amount contained in this. 2 (in pl.) colloq. large quantities, esp. of rain or tears. 3 scoop in a water wheel, dredger, etc. -v. (-t-) colloq. 1 (often foll. by down) (esp. of rain) pour heavily. 2 (often foll. by along) move or drive fast or bumpily. [Anglo-French]
bucket seat n. seat with a rounded back for one person, esp. in a car.
bucket-shop n. 1 unregistered broking agency. 2 colloq. travel agency specializing in cheap air tickets.
buckle -n. clasp with a hinged pin for securing a belt, strap, etc. -v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. by up, on, etc.) fasten with a buckle. 2 (often foll. by up) (cause to) crumple under pressure. buckle down make a determined effort. [Latin buccula cheek-strap]
buckler n. hist. small round shield.
buckram n. coarse linen etc. stiffened with paste etc. [French boquerant]
Buck's Fizz n. cocktail of champagne and orange juice. [Buck's Club in London]
buckshee adj. & adv. slang free of charge. [corruption of *baksheesh]
buckshot n. coarse lead shot.
buckskin n. 1 leather from a buck's skin. 2 thick smooth cotton or woollen cloth.
buckthorn n. thorny shrub with berries formerly used as a purgative.
buck-tooth n. upper projecting tooth.
buckwheat n. seed of a plant related to rhubarb, used to make flour, or as an alternative to rice. [Dutch, = beech-wheat]
bucolic -adj. of shepherds; rustic, pastoral. -n. (usu. in pl.) pastoral poem or poetry. [Greek boukolos herdsman]
bud -n. 1 a knoblike shoot from which a stem, leaf, or flower develops. b flower or leaf not fully open. 2 asexual outgrowth from an organism separating to form a new individual. -v. (-dd-) 1 form buds. 2 begin to grow or develop (budding artist). 3 graft a bud of (a plant) on to another. [origin unknown]
Buddha n. 1 title of the Indian philosopher Gautama (5th c. BC) and his successors. 2 sculpture etc. of Buddha. [Sanskrit, = enlightened]
Buddhism n. Asian religion or philosophy founded by Gautama Buddha. Buddhist n. & adj.
buddleia n. shrub with fragrant flowers attractive to butterflies. [Buddle, name of a botanist]
buddy -n. (pl. -ies) esp. US colloq. friend or mate. [perhaps from *brother]
budge v. (-ging) (usu. with neg.) 1 move slightly. 2 (cause to) change an opinion. budge up (or over) make room for another person by moving. [French bouger]
budgerigar n. small parrot, often kept as a cage-bird. [Aboriginal]
budget -n. 1 amount of money needed or available. 2 a (the Budget) Government's annual estimate or plan of revenue and expenditure. b similar estimate by a company etc. 3 (attrib.) inexpensive. -v. (-t-) (often foll. by for) allow or arrange for in a budget. budgetary adj. [Latin bulga bag]
budgie n. colloq. = *budgerigar. [abbreviation]
buff -adj. of a yellowish beige colour (buff envelope). -n. 1 this colour. 2 (in comb.) colloq. enthusiast (railway buff). 3 velvety dull-yellow ox-leather. -v. 1 polish (metal etc.). 2 make (leather) velvety. in the buff colloq. naked. [originally = buffalo, from French buffle]
buff -adj. of a yellowish beige colour (buff envelope). -n. 1 this colour. 2 (in comb.) colloq. enthusiast (railway buff). 3 velvety dull-yellow ox-leather. -v. 1 polish (metal etc.). 2 make (leather) velvety. in the buff colloq. naked. [originally = buffalo, from French buffle]
buffalo n. (pl. same or -es) 1 wild ox of Africa or Asia. 2 N. American bison. [Greek boubalos ox]
buffer1 n. 1 thing that deadens impact, esp. a device on a train or at the end of a track. 2 substance that maintains the constant acidity of a solution. 3 Computing temporary memory area or queue for data. [imitative]
buffer2 n. slang silly or incompetent old man. [perhaps from *buffer1]
buffer State n. small State between two larger ones, regarded as reducing friction.
buffet1 n. 1 room or counter where refreshments are sold. 2 self-service meal of several dishes set out at once. 3 also sideboard or recessed cupboard. [French, = stool]
buffet2 -v. (-t-) 1 strike repeatedly. 2 contend with (waves etc.). -n. 1 blow, esp. of the hand. 2 shock. [French diminutive of bufe blow]
buffet car n. railway coach serving refreshments.
buffoon n. clownish or stupid person. buffoonery n. [Latin buffo clown]
bug -n. 1 a any of various insects with mouthparts modified for piercing and sucking. b esp. US small insect. 2 slang virus; infection. 3 slang concealed microphone. 4 slang error in a computer program or system etc. 5 slang obsession, enthusiasm, etc. -v. (-gg-) 1 slang conceal a microphone in. 2 slang annoy. [origin unknown]
bugbear n. 1 cause of annoyance. 2 object of baseless fear. [bug = bogey]
bugger coarse slang (except in sense 2 of n. and 3 of v.) -n. 1 a unpleasant or awkward person or thing. b person of a specified kind (clever bugger!). 2 person who commits buggery. -v. 1 as an exclamation of annoyance (bugger it!). 2 (often foll. by up) a ruin; spoil. b exhaust. 3 commit buggery with. -int. expressing annoyance. bugger-all nothing. bugger about (or around) (often foll. by with) mess about. bugger off (often in imper.) go away. [Latin Bulgarus Bulgarian heretic]
buggery n. 1 anal intercourse. 2 = *bestiality 2.
buggy n. (pl. -ies) 1 small, sturdy, esp. open, motor vehicle. 2 lightweight push-chair. 3 light, horse-drawn vehicle for one or two people. [origin unknown]
bugle -n. brass military instrument like a small trumpet. -v. (-ling) 1 sound a bugle. 2 sound (a call etc.) on a bugle. bugler n. [Latin buculus young bull]
bugloss n. plant with bright blue tubular flowers, related to borage. [French buglosse from Greek, = ox-tongued]
build -v. (past and past part. built) 1 construct or cause to be constructed. 2 a (often foll. by up) establish or develop (built the business up). b (often foll. by on) base (hopes, theories, etc.). 3 (as built adj.) of specified build (sturdily built). -n. 1 physical proportions (slim build). 2 style of construction; make. build in incorporate. build on add (an extension etc.). build up 1 increase in size or strength. 2 praise; boost. 3 gradually become established. [Old English]
builder n. person who builds, esp. a building contractor.
building n. 1 permanent fixed structure e.g. a house, factory, or stable. 2 constructing of these.
building society n. public finance company paying interest to investors and lending capital for mortgages etc.
build-up n. 1 favourable advance publicity. 2 gradual approach to a climax. 3 accumulation or increase.
built past and past part. of *build.
built-in adj. integral.
built-up adj. 1 (of a locality) densely developed. 2 increased in height etc. by addition. 3 made of prefabricated parts.
bulb n. 1 a globular base of the stem of some plants, sending roots downwards and leaves upwards. b plant grown from this, e.g. a daffodil. 2 = *light-bulb. 3 object or part shaped like a bulb. [Latin bulbus from Greek, = onion]
bulbous adj. bulb-shaped; fat or bulging.
bulbous adj. bulb-shaped; fat or bulging.
bulge -n. 1 irregular swelling. 2 colloq. temporary increase (baby bulge). -v. (-ging) swell outwards. bulgy adj. [Latin bulga bag]
bulimia n. (in full bulimia nervosa) disorder in which overeating alternates with self-induced vomiting, fasting, etc. [Greek bous ox, limos hunger]
bulk -n. 1 a size; magnitude (esp. large). b large mass, body, etc. c large quantity. 2 (treated as pl. & usu. prec. by the) greater part or number (the bulk of the applicants are women). 3 roughage. -v. 1 seem (in size or importance) (bulks large). 2 make (a book etc.) thicker etc. in bulk in large quantities. [Old Norse]
bulk buying n. buying in quantity at a discount.
bulkhead n. upright partition in a ship, aircraft, etc.
bulky adj. (-ier, -iest) awkwardly large. bulkiness n.
bull1 n. 1 a uncastrated male bovine animal. b male of the whale, elephant, etc. 2 (the Bull) zodiacal sign or constellation Taurus. 3 bull's-eye of a target. 4 person who buys shares hoping to sell them at a profit. take the bull by the horns face danger or a challenge boldly. bullish adj. [Old Norse]
bull2 n. papal edict. [Latin bulla seal]
bull3 n. 1 slang a nonsense. b unnecessary routine tasks. 2 absurdly illogical statement. [origin unknown]
bulldog n. 1 short-haired heavy-jowled sturdy dog. 2 tenacious and courageous person.
bulldog clip n. strong sprung clip for papers.
bulldoze v. (-zing) 1 clear with a bulldozer. 2 colloq. a intimidate. b make (one's way) forcibly.
bulldozer n. powerful tractor with a broad vertical blade at the front for clearing ground.
bullet n. small pointed missile fired from a rifle, revolver, etc. [French diminutive of boule ball]
bulletin n. 1 short official news report. 2 society's regular list of information etc. [Italian diminutive: related to *bull2]
bulletproof adj. designed to protect from bullets.
bullfight n. public baiting, and usu. killing, of bulls. bullfighter n. bullfighting n.
bullfinch n. pink and black finch.
bullfrog n. large N. American frog with a booming croak.
bull-headed n. obstinate, blundering.
bullion n. gold or silver in bulk before coining, or valued by weight. [French: related to *boil1]
bullock n. castrated male of domestic cattle. [Old English diminutive of *bull1]
bullring n. arena for bullfights.
bull's-eye n. 1 centre of a target. 2 hard minty sweet. 3 hemispherical ship's window. 4 small circular window. 5 a hemispherical lens. b lantern with this. 6 boss of glass in a blown glass sheet.
bullshit coarse slang -n. (often as int.) nonsense; pretended knowledge. -v. (-tt-) talk nonsense or as if one has specialist knowledge (to). bullshitter n. [from *bull3]
bull-terrier n. cross between a bulldog and a terrier.
bully1 -n. (pl. -ies) person coercing others by fear. -v. (-ies, -ied) persecute or oppress by force or threats. -int. (foll. by for) often iron. expressing approval (bully for you). [Dutch]
bully2 (in full bully off) -n. (pl. -ies) start of play in hockey in which two opponents strike each other's sticks three times and then go for the ball. -v. (-ies, -ied) start play in this way. [origin unknown]
bully3 n. (in full bully beef) corned beef. [French: related to *boil1]
bulrush n. 1 a kind of tall rush. 2 Bibl. papyrus. [perhaps from *bull1 = coarse + *rush2]
bulwark n. 1 defensive wall, esp. of earth. 2 protecting person or thing. 3 (usu. in pl.) ship's side above deck. [Low German or Dutch]
bum1 n. slang buttocks. [origin uncertain]
bum2 US slang -n. loafer or tramp; dissolute person. -v. (-mm-) 1 (often foll. by around) loaf or wander around. 2 cadge. -attrib. adj. of poor quality. [German Bummler loafer]
bum-bag n. slang small pouch worn on a belt round the waist or hips.
bumble v. (-ling) 1 (foll. by on) speak in a rambling way. 2 (often as bumbling adj.) be inept; blunder. [from *boom1]
bumble v. (-ling) 1 (foll. by on) speak in a rambling way. 2 (often as bumbling adj.) be inept; blunder. [from *boom1]
bumble-bee n. large bee with a loud hum.
bumf n. colloq. usu. derog. papers, documents. [abbreviation of bum-fodder = toilet-paper]
bump -n. 1 dull-sounding blow or collision. 2 swelling or dent so caused. 3 uneven patch on a road etc. 4 prominence on the skull thought to indicate a mental faculty. -v. 1 a hit or come against with a bump. b (often foll. by against, into) collide. 2 (often foll. by against, on) hurt or damage by striking (bumped my head, the car). 3 (usu. foll. by along) move along with jolts. -adv. with a bump; suddenly; violently. bump into colloq. meet by chance. bump off slang murder. bump up colloq. increase (prices etc.). bumpy adj. (-ier, -iest). [imitative]
bumper n. 1 horizontal bar at the front or back of a motor vehicle, reducing damage in a collision. 2 (usu. attrib.) unusually large or fine example (bumper crop). 3 Cricket ball rising high after pitching. 4 brim-full glass.
bumper car n. = *dodgem.
bumpkin n. rustic or socially inept person. [Dutch]
bumptious adj. offensively self-assertive or conceited. [from *bump, after fractious]
bun n. 1 small sweet bread roll or cake, often with dried fruit. 2 hair coiled and pinned to the head. [origin unknown]
bunch -n. 1 things gathered together. 2 collection; lot (best of the bunch). 3 colloq. group; gang. -v. 1 make into a bunch; gather into close folds. 2 form into a group or crowd. [origin unknown]
bundle -n. 1 things tied or fastened together. 2 set of nerve fibres etc. 3 slang large amount of money. -v. (-ling) 1 (usu. foll. by up) tie or make into a bundle. 2 (usu. foll. by into) throw or move carelessly. 3 (usu. foll. by out, off, away, etc.) send away hurriedly. be a bundle of nerves (or fun etc.) be extremely nervous (or amusing etc.). go a bundle on slang admire; like. [Low German or Dutch]
bun fight n. slang tea party.
bung -n. stopper, esp. for a cask. -v. 1 stop with a bung. 2 slang throw. bunged up blocked up. [Dutch]
bungalow n. one-storeyed house. [Gujarati, = of Bengal]
bungee n. (in full bungee cord, rope) elasticated cord or rope used for securing baggage or in bungee jumping.
bungee jumping n. sport of jumping from a height while secured by a bungee from the ankles or a harness.
bungle -v. (-ling) 1 mismanage or fail at (a task). 2 work badly or clumsily. -n. bungled attempt or work. [imitative]
bunion n. swelling on the foot, esp. on the big toe. [French]
bunk1 n. shelflike bed against a wall, esp. in a ship. [origin unknown]
bunk2 slang -v. (often foll. by off) play truant (from). -n. (in do a bunk) leave or abscond hurriedly. [origin unknown]
bunk3 n. slang nonsense, humbug. [shortening of *bunkum]
bunk-bed n. each of two or more tiered beds forming a unit.
bunker n. 1 container for fuel. 2 reinforced underground shelter. 3 sandy hollow in a golf-course. [origin unknown]
bunkum n. nonsense, humbug. [Buncombe in US]
bunny n. (pl. -ies) 1 child's name for a rabbit. 2 (in full bunny girl) club hostess, waitress, etc., wearing rabbit ears and tail. [dial. bun rabbit]
Bunsen burner n. small adjustable gas burner used in a laboratory. [Bunsen, name of a chemist]
bunting1 n. small bird related to the finches. [origin unknown]
bunting2 n. 1 flags and other decorations. 2 loosely-woven fabric for these. [origin unknown]
buoy -n. 1 anchored float as a navigation mark etc. 2 lifebuoy. -v. 1 (usu. foll. by up) a keep afloat. b encourage, uplift. 2 (often foll. by out) mark with a buoy. [Dutch, perhaps from Latin boia collar]
buoyant adj. 1 able or apt to keep afloat. 2 resilient; exuberant. buoyancy n. [French or Spanish: related to *buoy]
BUPA abbr. British United Provident Association, a private health insurance organization.
BUPA abbr. British United Provident Association, a private health insurance organization.
bur n. 1 a prickly clinging seed-case or flower-head. b any plant having these. 2 clinging person. 3 var. of *burr n. 2. [Scandinavian]
burble v. 1 talk ramblingly. 2 make a bubbling sound. [imitative]
burbot n. (pl. same) eel-like freshwater fish. [French]
burden -n. 1 load, esp. a heavy one. 2 oppressive duty, expense, emotion, etc. 3 bearing of loads (beast of burden). 4 a refrain of a song. b chief theme of a speech, book, etc. -v. load with a burden; oppress. burdensome adj. [Old English: related to *birth]
burden of proof n. obligation to prove one's case.
burdock n. plant with prickly flowers and docklike leaves. [from *bur, *dock3]
bureau n. (pl. -x or -s) 1 a desk with drawers and usu. an angled hinged top. b US chest of drawers. 2 a office or department for specific business. b government department. [French, originally = baize]
bureaucracy n. (pl. -ies) 1 a government by central administration. b State etc. so governed. 2 government officials, esp. regarded as oppressive and inflexible. 3 conduct typical of these.
bureaucrat n. 1 official in a bureaucracy. 2 inflexible administrator. bureaucratic adj. bureaucratically adv.
buret n. (Brit. burette) graduated glass tube with an end-tap for measuring liquid in chemical analysis. [French]
burette n. (US buret) graduated glass tube with an end-tap for measuring liquid in chemical analysis. [French]
burgeon v. literary grow rapidly; flourish. [Latin burra wool]
burger n. colloq. hamburger. [abbreviation]
burgher n. citizen of a Continental town. [German or Dutch]
burglar n. person who commits burglary. [Anglo-French]
burglary n. (pl. -ies) 1 illegal entry with intent to commit theft, do bodily harm, or do damage. 2 instance of this.
Usage Before 1968 in English law, burglary was a crime under statute and common law; since 1968 it has been a statutory crime only; cf. *housebreaking.
burgle v. (-ling) commit burglary (on).
burgomaster n. mayor of a Dutch or Flemish town. [Dutch]
burgundy n. (pl. -ies) 1 (also Burgundy) a red or white wine from Burgundy in E. France. b hist. similar wine from elsewhere. 2 dark red colour of this.
burial n. 1 a burying of a corpse. b funeral. 2 Archaeol. grave or its remains.
burin n. 1 tool for engraving copper or wood. 2 Archaeol. chisel-pointed flint tool. [French]
burk var. of *berk.
burlesque -n. 1 a comic imitation, parody. b this as a genre. 2 US variety show, esp. with striptease. -adj. of or using burlesque. -v. (-ques, -qued, -quing) parody. [Italian burla mockery]
burly adj. (-ier, -iest) large and sturdy. [Old English]
burn1 -v. (past and past part. burnt or burned) 1 (cause to) be consumed or destroyed by fire. 2 blaze or glow with fire. 3 (cause to) be injured or damaged by fire, heat, radiation, acid, etc. 4 use or be used as fuel etc. 5 char in cooking. 6 produce (a hole, mark, etc.) by fire or heat. 7 a heat (clay, chalk, etc.). b harden (bricks) by fire. 8 colour, tan, or parch with heat or light. 9 (be) put to death by fire. 10 cauterize, brand. 11 make, be, or feel hot, esp. painfully. 12 (often foll. by with) (cause to) feel great emotion or passion (burn with shame). 13 slang drive fast. -n. mark or injury caused by burning. burn one's boats (or bridges) commit oneself irrevocably. burn the candle at both ends work etc. excessively. burn down destroy or be destroyed by burning. burn one's fingers suffer for meddling or rashness. burn the midnight oil read or work late. burn out 1 be reduced to nothing by burning. 2 (cause to) fail by burning. 3 (usu. refl.) suffer exhaustion. burn up 1 get rid of by fire. 2 begin to blaze. [Old English]
burn2 n. Scot. brook. [Old English]
burner n. part of a gas cooker, lamp, etc. that emits the flame.
burning adj. 1 ardent, intense. 2 hotly discussed, vital, urgent.
burning-glass n. lens for concentrating the sun's rays to produce a flame.
burnish v. polish by rubbing. [French brunir from brun brown]
burnous n. Arab or Moorish hooded cloak. [Arabic from Greek]
burn-out n. exhaustion. burnt-out adj.
burnt see *burn1.
burnt ochre n. (also burnt sienna or umber) pigment darkened by burning.
burnt offering n. offering burnt on an altar as a sacrifice.
burp colloq. -v. 1 belch. 2 make (a baby) belch. -n. belch. [imitative]
burr -n. 1 a whirring sound. b rough sounding of the letter r. 2 (also bur) a rough edge on metal or paper. b surgeon's or dentist's small drill. 3 var. of *bur 1, 2. -v. make a burr. [imitative]
burrow -n. hole or tunnel dug by a rabbit etc. as a dwelling or shelter. -v. 1 make a burrow. 2 make (a hole, one's way, etc.) (as) by digging. 3 (foll. by into) investigate, search. [apparently var. of *borough]
bursar n. 1 treasurer, esp. of a college. 2 holder of a bursary. [medieval Latin bursarius from bursa purse]
bursary n. (pl. -ies) grant, esp. a scholarship. [medieval Latin: related to *bursar]
burst -v. (past and past part. burst) 1 (cause to) break violently apart; open forcibly from within. 2 a (usu. foll. by in, out) make one's way suddenly or by force. b break away from or through (river burst its banks). 3 be full to overflowing. 4 appear or come suddenly (burst into flame). 5 (foll. by into) suddenly begin to shed (tears) or utter. 6 seem about to burst from effort, excitement, etc. -n. 1 act of bursting. 2 sudden issue or outbreak (burst of flame; burst of applause). 3 sudden effort, spurt. burst out 1 suddenly begin (burst out laughing). 2 exclaim. [Old English]
burton n. go for a burton slang be lost, destroyed, or killed. [origin uncertain]
bury v. (-ies, -ied) 1 place (a corpse) in the earth, a tomb, or the sea. 2 lose by death (buried two sons). 3 a put or hide under ground. b cover up; conceal. 4 consign to obscurity; forget. 5 (refl. or passive) involve deeply (buried in a book). bury the hatchet cease to quarrel. [Old English]
bus -n. (pl. buses or US busses) 1 large esp. public passenger vehicle, usu. travelling a fixed route. 2 colloq. car, aeroplane, etc. -v. (buses or busses, bussed, bussing) 1 go by bus. 2 US transport by bus, esp. to aid racial integration. [abbreviation of *omnibus]
busby n. (pl. -ies) tall fur hat worn by hussars etc. [origin unknown]
bush1 n. 1 shrub or clump of shrubs. 2 thing like a bush, esp. a clump of hair. 3 (esp. in Australia and Africa) uncultivated area; woodland or forest. [Old English and Old Norse]
bush2 -n. 1 metal lining for a hole enclosing a revolving shaft etc. 2 sleeve giving electrical insulation. -v. fit with a bush. [Dutch busse box]
bush-baby n. (pl. -ies) small African lemur.
bushed adj. colloq. tired out.
bushel n. measure of capacity for corn, fruit, etc. (8 gallons or 36.4 litres). [French]
bushfire n. forest or scrub fire often spreading widely.
bushman n. 1 traveller or dweller in the Australian bush. 2 (Bushman) member or language of a S.African aboriginal people.
bush telegraph n. rapid spreading of information, rumour, etc.
bushy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 growing thickly like a bush. 2 having many bushes.
business n. 1 one's regular occupation or profession. 2 one's own concern. 3 task or duty. 4 serious work or activity. 5 (difficult or unpleasant) matter or affair. 6 thing(s) needing attention or discussion. 7 buying and selling; trade. 8 commercial firm. mind one's own business not meddle. [Old English: related to *busy]
businesslike adj. efficient, systematic.
businessman n. (fem. businesswoman) man or woman engaged in trade or commerce.
business park n. area designed for commerce and light industry.
business person n. businessman or businesswoman.
busk v. perform esp. music in the street etc. for tips. busker n. [obsolete busk peddle]
bus lane n. part of a road mainly for use by buses.
busman n. bus driver.
busman's holiday n. holiday spent in an activity similar to one's regular work.
bus shelter n. shelter beside a bus-stop.
bus station n. centre where buses depart and arrive.
bus-stop n. 1 regular stopping-place of a bus. 2 sign marking this.
bust1 n. 1 human chest, esp. of a woman; bosom. 2 sculpture of a person's head, shoulders, and chest. busty adj. (-ier, -iest). [French from Italian]
bust2 -v. (past and past part. busted or bust) colloq. 1 break, burst. 2 a raid, search. b arrest. -adj. (also busted) 1 broken, burst. 2 bankrupt. bust up 1 collapse. 2 (esp. of a married couple) separate. [var. of *burst]
bustard n. large land bird that can run very fast. [Latin avis tarda slow bird ('slow' unexplained)]
buster n. esp. US slang mate; fellow. [from *bust2]
bustier n. strapless close-fitting bodice. [French]
bustle1 -v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. by about) (cause to) move busily and energetically. 2 (as bustling adj.) active, lively. -n. excited or energetic activity. [perhaps from obsolete busk prepare]
bustle2 n. hist. padding worn under a skirt to puff it out behind. [origin unknown]
bust-up n. 1 quarrel. 2 collapse.
busy -adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 occupied or engaged in work etc. 2 full of activity; fussy (busy evening, street; busy design). 3 esp. US (of a telephone line) engaged. -v. (-ies, -ied) (often refl.) keep busy; occupy. busily adv. [Old English]
busybody n. (pl. -ies) meddlesome person.
busy Lizzie n. plant with abundant esp. red, pink, or white flowers.
but -conj. 1 a nevertheless, however (tried but failed). b on the other hand; on the contrary (I am old but you are young). 2 except, otherwise than (cannot choose but do it; what could we do but run?). 3 without the result that (it never rains but it pours). -prep. except; apart from; other than (all cried but me; nothing but trouble). -adv. 1 only; no more than; only just (we can but try; is but a child; had but arrived). 2 in emphatic repetition; definitely (would see nobody, but nobody). -rel. pron. who not; that not (not a man but feels pity). -n. objection (ifs and buts). but for without the help or hindrance etc. of (but for you I'd be rich). but one (or two etc.) excluding one (or two etc.) from the number (next door but one; last but one). but then however (I won, but then I am older). [Old English]
butane n. gaseous alkane hydrocarbon, used in liquefied form as fuel. [from *butyl]
butch adj. slang masculine; tough-looking. [origin uncertain]
butcher -n. 1 a person who deals in meat. b slaughterer. 2 brutal murderer. -v. 1 slaughter or cut up (an animal) for food. 2 kill wantonly or cruelly. 3 colloq. ruin through incompetence. [French boc *buck1]
butchery n. (pl. -ies) 1 needless or cruel slaughter (of people). 2 butcher's trade.
butler n. principal manservant of a household. [French bouteille bottle]
butt1 -v. 1 push or strike with the head or horns. 2 (cause to) meet edge to edge. -n. 1 push with the head. 2 join of two edges. butt in interrupt, meddle. [French from Germanic]
butt2 n. 1 (often foll. by of) object of ridicule etc. 2 a mound behind a target. b (in pl.) shooting-range. [French but goal]
butt3 n. 1 thicker end, esp. of a tool or weapon. 2 stub of a cigarette etc. 3 esp. US slang buttocks. [Dutch]
butt4 n. cask. [Latin buttis]
butter -n. 1 solidified churned cream, used as a spread and in cooking. 2 substance of similar texture (peanut butter). -v. spread, cook, or serve with butter. butter up colloq. flatter. [Greek bouturon]
butter-bean n. 1 flat, dried, white lima bean. 2 yellow-podded bean.
butter-cream n. mixture of butter, icing sugar, etc., as a filling etc. for a cake.
butter-cream n. mixture of butter, icing sugar, etc., as a filling etc. for a cake.
buttercup n. wild plant with yellow cup-shaped flowers.
butterfat n. essential fats of pure butter.
butter-fingers n. colloq. person prone to drop things.
butterfly n. (pl. -flies) 1 insect with four usu. brightly coloured wings. 2 (in pl.) colloq. nervous sensation in the stomach.
butterfly nut n. a kind of wing-nut.
butterfly stroke n. stroke in swimming, with arms raised and lifted forwards together.
butter-icing n. = *butter-cream.
buttermilk n. liquid left after churning butter.
butter muslin n. thin loosely-woven cloth, orig. for wrapping butter.
butterscotch n. brittle toffee made from butter, brown sugar, etc.
buttery1 n. (pl. -ies) food store, esp. in a college; snack-bar etc. [related to *butt4]
buttery2 adj. like or containing butter.
buttock n. 1 each of the two fleshy protuberances at the rear of the human trunk. 2 corresponding part of an animal. [butt ridge]
button -n. 1 small disc etc. sewn to a garment as a fastener or worn as an ornament. 2 small round knob etc. pressed to operate electronic equipment. -v. = button up 1. button up 1 fasten with buttons. 2 colloq. complete satisfactorily. 3 colloq. be silent. [French from Germanic]
buttonhole -n. 1 slit in cloth for a button. 2 flower etc. worn in a lapel buttonhole. -v. (-ling) colloq. accost and detain (a reluctant listener).
button mushroom n. young unopened mushroom.
buttress -n. 1 projecting support built against a wall. 2 source of help etc. -v. (often foll. by up) 1 support with a buttress. 2 support by argument etc. (buttressed by facts). [related to *butt1]
butty n. (pl. -ies) N.Engl. sandwich. [from *butter]
butyl n. the univalent alkyl radical C4H9. [Latin butyrum *butter]
buxom adj. (esp. of a woman) plump and rosy; busty. [earlier = pliant: related to *bow2]
buy -v. (buys, buying; past and past part. bought) 1 a obtain for money etc. b serve to obtain (money can't buy happiness; the best that money can buy). 2 a procure by bribery etc. b bribe. 3 get by sacrifice etc. 4 slang believe in, accept. 5 be a buyer for a store etc. -n. colloq. purchase. buy in buy a stock of. buy into pay for a share in (an enterprise). buy off pay to get rid of. buy oneself out obtain one's release (esp. from the armed services) by payment. buy out pay (a person) for ownership, an interest, etc. buy up 1 buy as much as possible of. 2 absorb (a firm etc.) by purchase. [Old English]
buyer n. 1 person employed to purchase stock for a large store etc. 2 purchaser, customer.
buyer's market n. (also buyers' market) trading conditions favourable to buyers.
buyout n. purchase of a controlling share in a company etc.
buzz -n. 1 hum of a bee etc. 2 sound of a buzzer. 3 a low murmur as of conversation. b stir; hurried activity (buzz of excitement). 4 slang telephone call. 5 slang thrill. -v. 1 hum. 2 a summon with a buzzer. b slang telephone. 3 a (often foll. by about) move busily. b (of a place) appear busy or full of excitement. buzz off slang go or hurry away. [imitative]
buzzard n. large bird of the hawk family. [Latin buteo falcon]
buzzer n. electrical buzzing device as a signal.
buzz-word n. colloq. fashionable technical or specialist word; catchword.
by -prep. 1 near, beside (sit by me; path by the river). 2 through the agency or means of (by proxy; poem by Donne; by bus; by cheating; divide by two; killed by robbers). 3 not later than (by next week). 4 a past, beyond (drove by the church). b through; via (went by Paris). 5 during (by day; by daylight). 6 to the extent of (missed by a foot; better by far). 7 according to; using as a standard or unit (judge by appearances; paid by the hour). 8 with the succession of (worse by the minute; day by day). 9 concerning; in respect of (did our duty by them; Smith by name). 10 used in mild oaths (by God).
by -prep. 1 near, beside (sit by me; path by the river). 2 through the agency or means of (by proxy; poem by Donne; by bus; by cheating; divide by two; killed by robbers). 3 not later than (by next week). 4 a past, beyond (drove by the church). b through; via (went by Paris). 5 during (by day; by daylight). 6 to the extent of (missed by a foot; better by far). 7 according to; using as a standard or unit (judge by appearances; paid by the hour). 8 with the succession of (worse by the minute; day by day). 9 concerning; in respect of (did our duty by them; Smith by name). 10 used in mild oaths (by God). 11 expressing dimensions of an area etc. (three feet by two). 12 avoiding, ignoring (passed us by). 13 inclining to (north by north-west). -adv. 1 near (sat by). 2 aside; in reserve (put £5 by). 3 past (marched by). -n. (pl. byes) = *bye1. by and by before long; eventually. by and large on the whole. by the by (or bye) incidentally. by oneself 1 a unaided. b unprompted. 2 alone. [Old English]
by- prefix subordinate, incidental (by-effect; byroad).
bye1 n. 1 Cricket run scored from a ball that passes the batsman without being hit. 2 status of an unpaired competitor in a sport, who proceeds to the next round by default. [from *by as a noun]
bye2 int. (also bye-bye) colloq. = *goodbye. [abbreviation]
by-election n. election to fill a vacancy arising between general elections.
Byelorussian (also Belorussian) -n. native or language of Byelorussia in eastern Europe. -adj. of Byelorussia, its people, or language. [Russian from belyi white, Russiya Russia]
bygone -adj. past, antiquated. -n. (in phr. let bygones be bygones) forgive and forget past quarrels.
by-law n. regulation made by a local authority or corporation. [obsolete by town]
byline n. 1 line naming the writer of a newspaper article etc. 2 secondary line of work. 3 goal-line or touch-line.
bypass -n. 1 main road passing round a town or its centre. 2 a secondary channel or pipe etc. used in emergencies. b alternative passage for the circulation of blood through the heart. -v. avoid, go round (a town, difficulty, etc.).
byplay n. secondary action, esp. in a play.
by-product n. 1 incidental product made in the manufacture of something else. 2 secondary result.
byre n. cowshed. [Old English]
byroad n. minor road.
byssinosis n. lung disease caused by textile fibre dust. [Greek bussinos made of linen]
bystander n. person present but not taking part; onlooker.
byte n. Computing group of eight binary digits, often representing one character. [origin uncertain]
byway n. 1 byroad or secluded path. 2 minor activity.
byword n. 1 person or thing as a notable example (is a byword for luxury). 2 familiar saying.
Byzantine -adj. 1 of Byzantium or the E. Roman Empire. 2 of its highly decorated style of architecture. 3 (of a political situation etc.) complex, inflexible, or underhand. -n. citizen of Byzantium or the E. Roman Empire. Byzantinism n. Byzantinist n. [Latin Byzantium, now Istanbul]
C
C1 n. (pl. Cs or C's) 1 (also c) third letter of the alphabet. 2 Mus. first note of the diatonic scale of C major. 3 third hypothetical person or example. 4 third highest category etc. 5 Algebra (usu. c) third known quantity. 6 (as a Roman numeral) 100. 7 (also ©) copyright.
C2 symb. carbon.
C3 abbr. (also C.) 1 Celsius, centigrade. 2 coulomb(s), capacitance.
c. abbr. 1 century. 2 cent(s).
c. abbr. circa.
Ca symb. calcium.
ca. abbr. circa.
CAA abbr. Civil Aviation Authority.
cab n. 1 taxi. 2 driver's compartment in a lorry, train, or crane etc. [abbreviation of *cabriolet]
cabal n. 1 secret intrigue. 2 political clique. [French from Latin]
cabaret n. entertainment in a nightclub or restaurant. [French, = tavern]
cabbage n. 1 vegetable with a round head and green or purple leaves. 2 = *vegetable 2. [French caboche head]
cabbage white n. butterfly whose caterpillars feed on cabbage leaves.
cabby n. (also cabbie) (pl. -ies) colloq. taxi-driver.
caber n. trimmed tree-trunk tossed as a sport in the Scottish Highlands. [Gaelic]
cabin n. 1 small shelter or house, esp. of wood. 2 room or compartment in an aircraft or ship for passengers or crew. 3 driver's cab. [French from Latin]
cabin-boy n. boy steward on a ship.
cabin cruiser n. large motor boat with accommodation.
cabinet n. 1 a cupboard or case for storing or displaying things. b casing of a radio, television, etc. 2 (Cabinet) committee of senior ministers in a government. [diminutive of *cabin]
cabinet-maker n. skilled joiner.
cable -n. 1 encased group of insulated wires for transmitting electricity etc. 2 thick rope of wire or hemp. 3 cablegram. 4 (in full cable stitch) knitting stitch resembling twisted rope. -v. (-ling) transmit (a message) or inform (a person) by cablegram. [Latin caplum halter, from Arabic]
cable-car n. small cabin suspended on a looped cable, for carrying passengers up and down a mountain etc.
cablegram n. telegraph message sent by undersea cable.
cable television n. television transmission by cable to subscribers.
cabman n. driver of a cab.
caboodle n. the whole caboodle slang the whole lot. [origin uncertain]
caboose n. 1 kitchen on a ship's deck. 2 US guard's van on a train etc. [Dutch]
cabriole n. a kind of esp. 18th-c. curved table or chair leg. [French: related to *capriole]
cabriolet n. 1 car with a folding top. 2 light two-wheeled one-horse carriage with a hood. [French: related to *capriole]
cacao n. (pl. -s) 1 seed from which cocoa and chocolate are made. 2 tree bearing these. [Spanish from Nahuatl]
cache -n. 1 hiding-place for treasure, stores, guns, etc. 2 things so hidden. -v. (-ching) put in a cache. [French cacher hide]
cachet n. 1 prestige. 2 distinguishing mark or seal. 3 flat capsule of medicine. [French cacher press]
cachou n. lozenge to sweeten the breath. [Portuguese cachu from Malay kachu]
cack-handed adj. colloq. 1 clumsy. 2 left-handed. [dial. cack excrement]
cackle -n. 1 clucking of a hen etc. 2 raucous laugh. 3 noisy chatter. -v. (-ling) 1 emit a cackle. 2 chatter noisily. [imitative]
cacophony n. (pl. -ies) harsh discordant sound. cacophonous adj. [Greek kakos bad, phone sound]
cactus n. (pl. -ti or cactuses) plant with a thick fleshy stem and usu. spines but no leaves. [Latin from Greek]
CAD abbr. computer aided design.
cad n. man who behaves dishonourably. caddish adj. [abbreviation of *caddie]
cadaver n. esp. Med. corpse. [Latin cado fall]
cadaverous adj. corpselike; very pale and thin.
caddie (also caddy) -n. (pl. -ies) person who carries a golfer's clubs during play. -v. (-ies, -ied, caddying) act as a caddie. [French *cadet]
caddis-fly n. small nocturnal insect living near water. [origin unknown]
caddis-worm n. (also caddis) larva of the caddis-fly. [origin unknown]
caddy1 n. (pl. -ies) small container for tea. [Malay]
caddy2 var. of *caddie.
cadence n. 1 rhythm; the measure or beat of a sound or movement. 2 fall in pitch of the voice. 3 tonal inflection. 4 close of a musical phrase. [Latin cado fall]
cadenza n. virtuoso passage for a soloist. [Italian: related to *cadence]
cadet n. young trainee for the armed services or police force. cadetship n. [French, ultimately from Latin caput head]
cadge v. (-ging) colloq. get or seek by begging. [origin unknown]
cadi n. (pl. -s) judge in a Muslim country. [Arabic]
cadmium n. soft bluish-white metallic element. [Greek kadmia Cadmean (earth)]
cadre n. 1 basic unit, esp. of servicemen. 2 group of esp. Communist activists. [French from Latin quadrus square]
caecum n. (US cecum) (pl. -ca) blind-ended pouch at the junction of the small and large intestines. [Latin caecus blind]
Caenozoic var. of *Cenozoic.
Caerphilly n. a kind of mild white cheese. [Caerphilly in Wales]
Caesar n. 1 title of Roman emperors. 2 autocrat. [Latin (C. Julius) Caesar]
caesura n. (pl. -s) pause in a line of verse. caesural adj. [Latin caedo cut]
cafe café n. small coffee-house or restaurant. [French]
cafeteria n. self-service restaurant. [American Spanish, = coffee-shop]
caffeine n. alkaloid stimulant in tea-leaves and coffee beans. [French café coffee]
caftan n. (also kaftan) 1 long tunic worn by men in the Near East. 2 long loose dress or shirt. [Turkish]
cage -n. 1 structure of bars or wires, esp. for confining animals or birds. 2 similar open framework, esp. a lift in mine etc. -v. (-ging) place or keep in a cage. [Latin cavea]
cagey adj. (also cagy) (-ier, -iest) colloq. cautious and non-committal. cagily adv. caginess n. [origin unknown]
cagoule n. thin hooded windproof jacket. [French]
cahoots n.pl. in cahoots slang in collusion. [origin uncertain]
caiman var. of *cayman.
Cain n. raise Cain colloq. = raise the roof. [Cain, eldest son of Adam (Gen. 4)]
Cainozoic var. of *Cenozoic.
cairn n. 1 mound of stones as a monument or landmark. 2 (in full cairn terrier) small shaggy short-legged terrier. [Gaelic]
cairngorm n. semiprecious form of quartz. [Cairngorms, in Scotland]
caisson n. watertight chamber for underwater construction work. [Italian cassone]
cajole v. (-ling) persuade by flattery, deceit, etc. cajolery n. [French]
cake -n. 1 mixture of flour, butter, eggs, sugar, etc., baked in the oven and often iced and decorated. 2 other food in a flat round shape (fish cake). 3 flattish compact mass (cake of soap). -v. (-king) 1 form into a compact mass. 2 (usu. foll. by with) cover (with a hard or sticky mass). have one's cake and eat it colloq. enjoy both of two mutually exclusive alternatives. a piece of cake colloq. something easily achieved. sell (or go) like hot cakes colloq. be sold (or go) quickly; be popular. [Old Norse]
cakewalk n. 1 obsolete American Black dance. 2 colloq. easy task. 3 fairground entertainment consisting of a promenade moved by machinery.
Cal abbr. large calorie(s).
cal abbr. small calorie(s).
calabash n. 1 gourd-bearing tree of tropical America. 2 such a gourd, esp. as a vessel for water, etc. [French from Spanish]
calabrese n. variety of broccoli. [Italian, = Calabrian]
calamine n. powdered form of zinc carbonate and ferric oxide used as a skin lotion. [French from Latin]
calamity n. (pl. -ies) disaster, great misfortune. calamitous adj. [French from Latin]
calcareous adj. of or containing calcium carbonate. [related to *calx]
calceolaria n. plant with slipper-shaped flowers. [Latin calceus shoe]
calces pl. of *calx.
calciferol n. vitamin (D2) promoting calcium deposition in the bones. [related to *calx]
calciferous adj. yielding calcium salts, esp. calcium carbonate.
calcify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 harden by the depositing of calcium salts. 2 convert or be converted to calcium carbonate. calcification n.
calcine v. (-ning) decompose or be decomposed by strong heat. calcination n. [French or medieval Latin: related to *calx]
calcite n. natural crystalline calcium carbonate. [Latin: related to *calx]
calcium n. soft grey metallic element occurring in limestone, marble, chalk, etc. [related to *calx]
calcium carbide n. greyish solid used in the production of acetylene.
calcium carbonate n. white insoluble solid occurring as chalk, marble, etc.
calcium hydroxide n. white crystalline powder used in the manufacture of mortar.
calcium oxide n. white crystalline solid from which many calcium compounds are manufactured.
calculate v. (-ting) 1 ascertain or forecast esp. by mathematics or reckoning. 2 plan deliberately. 3 (foll. by on) rely on; reckon on. calculable adj. [Latin: related to *calculus]
calculated adj. 1 (of an action) done deliberately or with foreknowledge. 2 (foll. by to + infin.) designed or suitable; intended.
calculating adj. scheming, mercenary.
calculation n. act, process, or result of calculating. [Latin: related to *calculus]
calculator n. device (esp. a small electronic one) for making mathematical calculations.
calculus n. (pl. -luses or -li) 1 particular method of mathematical calculation or reasoning. 2 stone or mineral mass in the body. [Latin, = small stone (used on an abacus)]
caldron var. of *cauldron.
Caledonian literary -adj. of Scotland. -n. Scotsman. [Latin Caledonia N. Britain]
calendar -n. 1 system fixing the year's beginning, length, and subdivision. 2 chart etc. showing such subdivisions. 3 timetable of dates, events, etc. -v. enter in a calendar; register (documents). [Latin: related to *calends]
calendar year n. period from 1 Jan. to 31 Dec. inclusive.
calender -n. machine in which cloth, paper, etc. is rolled to glaze or smooth it. -v. press in a calender. [French]
calends n.pl. (also kalends) first of the month in the ancient Roman calendar. [Latin Kalendae]
calendula n. plant with large yellow or orange flowers, esp. the marigold. [Latin diminutive of Kalendae]
calf1 n. (pl. calves) 1 young cow or bull. 2 young of other animals, e.g. the elephant, deer, and whale. 3 calfskin. [Old English]
calf2 n. (pl. calves) fleshy hind part of the human leg below the knee. [Old Norse]
calf-love n. romantic adolescent love.
calfskin n. calf-leather.
caliber n. (Brit. calibre) 1 a internal diameter of a gun or tube. b diameter of a bullet or shell. 2 strength or quality of character; ability, importance. [French from Italian from Arabic, = mould]
calibrate v. (-ting) 1 mark (a gauge) with a scale of readings. 2 correlate the readings of (an instrument or system of measurement) with a standard. 3 determine the calibre of (a gun). calibration n.
calibre n. (US caliber) 1 a internal diameter of a gun or tube. b diameter of a bullet or shell. 2 strength or quality of character; ability, importance. [French from Italian from Arabic, = mould]
calices pl. of *calix.
calico -n. (pl. -es or US -s) 1 cotton cloth, esp. plain white or unbleached. 2 US printed cotton fabric. -adj. 1 of calico. 2 US multicoloured. [Calicut in India]
californium n. artificial radioactive metallic element. [California in US, where first made]
caliper var. of *calliper.
caliph n. esp. hist. chief Muslim civil and religious ruler. caliphate n. [Arabic, = successor (of Muhammad)]
calisthenics var. of *callisthenics.
calix var. of *calyx.
calk US var. of *caulk.
call -v. 1 a (often foll. by out) cry, shout; speak loudly. b (of a bird etc.) emit its characteristic sound. 2 communicate with by telephone or radio. 3 summon. 4 (often foll. by at, in, on) pay a brief visit. 5 order to take place (called a meeting). 6 name; describe as. 7 regard as (I call that silly). 8 rouse from sleep. 9 (foll. by for) demand. 10 (foll. by on, upon) appeal to (called on us to be quiet). 11 name (a suit) in bidding at cards. 12 guess the outcome of tossing a coin etc. -n. 1 shout, cry. 2 a characteristic cry of a bird etc. b instrument for imitating it. 3 brief visit. 4 a act of telephoning. b telephone conversation. 5 a invitation, summons. b vocation. 6 need, occasion (no call for rudeness). 7 demand (a call on one's time). 8 signal on a bugle etc. 9 option of buying stock at a fixed price at a given date. 10 Cards a player's right or turn to make a bid. b bid made. call in 1 withdraw from circulation. 2 seek the advice or services of. call off 1 cancel (an arrangement). 2 order (an attacker or pursuer) to desist. call out 1 summon to action. 2 order (workers) to strike. call the shots (or tune) colloq. be in control; take the initiative. call up 1 telephone. 2 recall. 3 summon to military service. on call ready or available if required. [Old English from Old Norse]
call-box n. telephone box.
caller n. person who calls, esp. one who pays a visit or makes a telephone call.
call-girl n. prostitute accepting appointments by telephone.
calligraphy n. 1 handwriting, esp. when fine. 2 art of this. calligrapher n. calligraphic adj. calligraphist n. [Greek kallos beauty]
calling n. 1 profession or occupation. 2 vocation.
calliper n. (also caliper) 1 (in pl.) compasses for measuring diameters. 2 metal splint to support the leg. [var. of *calibre]
callisthenics n.pl. (also calisthenics) exercises for fitness and grace. callisthenic adj. [Greek kallos beauty, sthenos strength]
callosity n. (pl. -ies) area of hard thick skin. [Latin: related to *callous]
callous adj. 1 unfeeling, insensitive. 2 (also calloused) (of skin) hardened. callously adv. callousness n. [Latin: related to *callus]
callow adj. inexperienced, immature. [Old English, = bald]
call-up n. summons to do military service.
callus n. (pl. calluses) 1 area of hard thick skin or tissue. 2 hard tissue formed round bone ends after a fracture. [Latin]
calm -adj. 1 tranquil, quiet, windless. 2 serene; not agitated. -n. calm condition or period. -v. (often foll. by down) make or become calm. calmly adv. calmness n. [Greek kauma heat]
calomel n. compound of mercury used as a cathartic. [Greek kalos beautiful, melas black]
Calor gas n. propr. liquefied butane gas stored under pressure in containers for domestic use. [Latin calor heat]
caloric adj. of heat or calories.
calorie n. (pl. -ies) unit of quantity of heat, the amount needed to raise the temperature of one gram (small calorie) or one kilogram (large calorie) of water by 1 °C. [Latin calor heat]
calorific adj. producing heat.
calorimeter n. instrument for measuring quantity of heat.
calumniate v. (-ting) slander. [Latin]
calumny n. (pl. -ies) slander; malicious representation. calumnious adj. [Latin]
calvados n. apple brandy. [Calvados in France]
calve v. (-ving) give birth to a calf. [Old English: related to *calf1]
calves pl. of *calf1, *calf2.
Calvinism n. theology of Calvin or his followers, stressing predestination and divine grace. Calvinist n. & adj. Calvinistic adj. [Calvin, name of a theologian]
calx n. (pl. calces) powdery substance formed when an ore or mineral has been heated. [Latin calx calc- lime]
calypso n. (pl. -s) W. Indian song with improvised usu. topical words and a syncopated rhythm. [origin unknown]
calyx n. (pl. calyces or -es) (also calix) 1 sepals forming the protective case of a flower in bud. 2 cuplike cavity or structure. [Greek, = husk]
cam n. projection on a wheel etc., shaped to convert circular into reciprocal or variable motion. [Dutch kam comb]
camaraderie n. friendly comradeship. [French]
camber -n. convex surface of a road, deck, etc. -v. build with a camber. [Latin camurus curved]
Cambrian -adj. 1 Welsh. 2 Geol. of the first period in the Palaeozoic era. -n. this period. [Welsh: related to *Cymric]
cambric n. fine linen or cotton fabric. [Cambrai in France]
Cambridge blue adj. & n. (as adj. often hyphenated) pale blue. [Cambridge in England]
camcorder n. combined video camera and sound recorder. [from *camera, *recorder]
came past of *come.
camel n. 1 long-legged ruminant with one hump (Arabian camel) or two humps (Bactrian camel). 2 fawn colour. [Greek]
camel-hair n. fine soft hair used in artists' brushes or for fabric.
camellia n. evergreen shrub with shiny leaves and showy flowers. [Camellus, name of a botanist]
Camembert n. a kind of soft creamy pungent cheese. [Camembert in France]
cameo n. (pl. -s) 1 small piece of hard stone carved in relief with a background of a different colour. 2 a short descriptive literary sketch or acted scene. b small character part in a play or film, usu. brief and played by a distinguished actor. [French and medieval Latin]
camera n. 1 apparatus for taking photographs or moving film. 2 equipment for converting images into electrical signals. in camera Law in private. [Latin: related to *chamber]
cameraman n. person who operates a camera professionally, esp. in film-making or television.
camiknickers n.pl. women's knickers and vest combined. [from *camisole, *knickers]
camisole n. women's lightweight vest. [Italian or Spanish: related to *chemise]
camomile n. (also chamomile) aromatic plant with daisy-like flowers used esp. to make tea. [Greek, = earth-apple]
camouflage -n. 1 a disguising of soldiers, tanks, etc. so that they blend into the background. b such a disguise. 2 the natural blending colouring of an animal. 3 misleading or evasive behaviour etc. -v. (-ging) hide by camouflage. [French camoufler disguise]
camp1 -n. 1 place where troops are lodged or trained. 2 temporary accommodation of huts, tents, etc., for detainees, holiday-makers, etc. 3 ancient fortified site. 4 party supporters etc. regarded collectively. -v. set up or spend time in a camp. [Latin campus level ground]
camp2 colloq. -adj. 1 affected, effeminate, theatrically exaggerated. 2 homosexual. -n. camp manner or style. -v. behave or do in a camp way. camp it up overact; behave affectedly. campy adj. (-ier, -iest). [origin uncertain]
campaign -n. 1 organized course of action, esp. to gain publicity. 2 military operations towards a particular objective. -v. take part in a campaign. campaigner n. [Latin: related to *camp1]
campanile n. bell-tower (usu. free-standing), esp. in Italy. [Italian campana 'bell', from Latin]
campanology n. 1 the study of bells. 2 bell-ringing. campanologist n. [Latin campana bell]
campanula n. plant with bell-shaped usu. blue, purple, or white flowers. [diminutive: related to *campanology]
camp-bed n. portable folding bed.
camper n. 1 person who camps. 2 large motor vehicle with beds etc.
camp-follower n. 1 civilian worker in a military camp. 2 disciple or adherent.
camphor n. pungent white crystalline substance used in making celluloid, medicine, and mothballs. [French ultimately from Sanskrit]
camphorate v. (-ting) impregnate or treat with camphor.
campion n. wild plant with usu. pink or white notched flowers. [origin uncertain]
campsite n. place for camping.
campus n. (pl. -es) 1 grounds of a university or college. 2 esp. US a university. [Latin, = field]
CAMRA abbr. Campaign for Real Ale.
camshaft n. shaft with one or more cams.
can1 v.aux. (3rd sing. present can; past could) 1 a be able to; know how to. b be potentially capable of (these storms can last for hours). 2 be permitted to. [Old English, = know]
can2 -n. 1 metal vessel for liquid. 2 sealed tin container for the preservation of food or drink. 3 (in pl.) slang headphones. 4 (prec. by the) slang a prison. b US lavatory. -v. (-nn-) put or preserve in a can. in the can colloq. completed, ready. [Old English]
Canada goose n. wild N. American goose with a brownish-grey body and white neck and breast.
canaille n. rabble; populace. [French from Italian]
canal n. 1 artificial inland waterway. 2 tubular duct in a plant or animal. [Latin canalis]
canalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 provide with or convert into a canal or canals. 2 channel. canalization n. [French: related to *canal]
canapé n. small piece of bread or pastry with a savoury topping. [French]
canard n. unfounded rumour or story. [French, = duck]
canary n. (pl. -ies) small songbird with yellow feathers. [Canary Islands]
canasta n. card-game using two packs and resembling rummy. [Spanish, = basket]
cancan n. lively stage-dance with high kicking. [French]
cancel v. (-ll-; US -l-) 1 revoke or discontinue (an arrangement). 2 delete (writing etc.). 3 mark (a ticket, stamp, etc.) to invalidate it. 4 annul; make void. 5 (often foll. by out) neutralize or counterbalance. 6 Math. strike out (an equal factor) on each side of an equation etc. cancellation n. [Latin: related to *chancel]
cancer n. 1 a malignant tumour of body cells. b disease caused by this. 2 evil influence or corruption. 3 (Cancer) a constellation and fourth sign of the zodiac (the Crab). b person born when the sun is in this sign. cancerous adj. cancroid adj. [Latin, = crab]
candela n. SI unit of luminous intensity. [Latin, = candle]
candelabrum n. (also -bra) (pl. -bra, US -brums, -bras) large branched candlestick or lamp-holder. [Latin: related to *candela]
Usage The form candelabra is, strictly speaking, the plural. However, candelabra (singular) and candelabras (plural) are often found in informal use.
candid adj. 1 frank; open. 2 (of a photograph) taken informally, usu. without subject's knowledge. candidly adv. candidness n. [Latin candidus white]
candida n. fungus causing thrush. [Latin candidus: related to *candid]
candidate n. 1 person nominated for or seeking office, an award, etc. 2 person or thing likely to gain some distinction or position. 3 person entered for an examination. candidacy n. candidature n. [Latin, = white-robed]
candle n. cylinder or block of wax or tallow with a central wick which gives light when burning. cannot hold a candle to is much inferior to. not worth the candle not justifying cost or trouble. [Latin candela]
candlelight n. light from candles. candlelit adj.
Candlemas n. feast of the Purification of the Virgin Mary (2 Feb.). [Old English: related to *mass2]
candlepower n. unit of luminous intensity.
candlestick n. holder for one or more candles.
candlewick n. 1 thick soft cotton yarn. 2 tufted material from this.
candor n. (Brit. candour) frankness; openness. [Latin candor]
candour n. (US candor) frankness; openness. [Latin candor]
C. & W. abbr. country-and-western (music).
candy -n. (pl. -ies) 1 (in full sugar-candy) sugar crystallized by repeated boiling and slow evaporation. 2 US sweets; a sweet. -v. (-ies, -ied) (usu. as candied adj.) preserve (fruit etc.) in candy. [French from Arabic]
candyfloss n. fluffy mass of spun sugar round a stick.
candystripe n. alternate stripes of white and a colour. candystriped adj.
candytuft n. plant with white, pink, or purple flowers in tufts. [Candia Crete, *tuft]
cane -n. 1 a hollow jointed stem of giant reeds or grasses. b solid stem of slender palms. 2 = *sugar cane. 3 cane used for wickerwork etc. 4 cane used as a walking-stick, plant support, for punishment, etc. -v. (-ning) 1 beat with a cane. 2 weave cane into (a chair etc.). [Greek kanna reed]
cane sugar n. sugar from sugar-cane.
canine -adj. of a dog or dogs. -n. 1 dog. 2 (in full canine tooth) pointed tooth between incisors and premolars. [Latin canis dog]
canister n. 1 small container for tea etc. 2 cylinder of shot, tear-gas, etc., exploding on impact. [Greek kanastron wicker basket]
canker -n. 1 destructive disease of trees and plants. 2 ulcerous ear disease of animals. 3 corrupting influence. -v. 1 infect with canker. 2 corrupt. 3 (as cankered adj.) soured, malignant. cankerous adj. [Latin: related to *cancer]
canna n. tropical plant with bright flowers and ornamental leaves. [Latin: related to *cane]
cannabis n. 1 hemp plant. 2 parts of it used as a narcotic. [Latin from Greek]
canned adj. 1 pre-recorded (canned music). 2 sold in a can (canned beer). 3 slang drunk.
cannelloni n.pl. tubes of pasta stuffed with a savoury mixture. [Italian]
cannery n. (pl. -ies) canning-factory.
cannibal n. person or animal that eats its own species. cannibalism n. cannibalistic adj. [Spanish from Carib]
cannibalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) use (a machine etc.) as a source of spare parts. cannibalization n.
cannon -n. 1 hist. (pl. usu. same) large heavy esp. mounted gun. 2 Billiards hitting of two balls successively by the player's ball. -v. (usu. foll. by against, into) collide. [Italian: related to *cane]
cannonade -n. period of continuous heavy gunfire. -v. (-ding) bombard with a cannonade. [Italian: related to *cannon]
cannon-ball n. hist. large ball fired by a cannon.
cannon-fodder n. soldiers regarded as expendable.
cannot v.aux. can not.
canny adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 shrewd, worldly-wise; thrifty. 2 Scot. & N.Engl. pleasant, agreeable. cannily adv. canniness n. [from *can1]
canoe -n. small narrow boat with pointed ends, usu. paddled. -v. (-noes, -noed, -noeing) travel in a canoe. canoeist n. [Spanish and Haitian]
canon n. 1 a general law, rule, principle, or criterion. b church decree or law. 2 member of a cathedral chapter. 3 body of (esp. sacred) writings accepted as genuine. 4 the part of the Roman Catholic Mass containing the words of consecration. 5 Mus. piece with different parts taking up the same theme successively. [Greek kanon rule]
cañon var. of *canyon.
canonical -adj. (also canonic) 1 a according to canon law. b included in the canon of Scripture. 2 authoritative, accepted. 3 of a cathedral chapter or a member of it. -n. (in pl.) canonical dress of clergy. [medieval Latin: related to *canon]
canonist n. expert in canon law.
canonize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 a declare officially to be a saint, usu. with a ceremony. b regard as a saint. 2 admit to the canon of Scripture. 3 sanction by Church authority. canonization n. [medieval Latin: related to *canon]
canon law n. ecclesiastical law.
canoodle v. (-ling) colloq. kiss and cuddle. [origin unknown]
canopy -n. (pl. -ies) 1 a covering suspended over a throne, bed, etc. b sky. c overhanging shelter. 2 Archit. rooflike projection over a niche etc. 3 expanding part of a parachute. -v. (-ies, -ied) supply or be a canopy to. [Greek, = mosquito-net]
canst archaic 2nd person sing. of *can1.
cant1 -n. 1 insincere pious or moral talk. 2 language peculiar to a class, profession, etc.; jargon. -v. use cant. [probably from Latin: related to *chant]
cant2 -n. 1 slanting surface, bevel. 2 oblique push or jerk. 3 tilted position. -v. push or pitch out of level; tilt. [Low German or Dutch, = edge]
cant1 -n. 1 insincere pious or moral talk. 2 language peculiar to a class, profession, etc.; jargon. -v. use cant. [probably from Latin: related to *chant]
cant2 -n. 1 slanting surface, bevel. 2 oblique push or jerk. 3 tilted position. -v. push or pitch out of level; tilt. [Low German or Dutch, = edge]
can't contr. can not.
Cantab abbr. of Cambridge University. [Latin Cantabrigiensis]
cantabile Mus. -adv. & adj. in smooth flowing style. -n. cantabile passage or movement. [Italian, = singable]
Cantabrigian -adj. of Cambridge or its university. -n. person from Cambridge or its university. [Cantabrigia, Latinized name of Cambridge]
cantaloup n. (also cantaloupe) small round ribbed melon. [Cantaluppi near Rome, where it was first grown in Europe]
cantankerous adj. bad-tempered, quarrelsome. cantankerously adv. cantankerousness n. [origin uncertain]
cantata n. Mus. composition with vocal solos and usu. choral and orchestral accompaniment. [Italian: related to *chant]
canteen n. 1 a restaurant for employees in an office, factory, etc. b shop for provisions in a barracks or camp. 2 case of cutlery. 3 soldier's or camper's water-flask. [Italian, = cellar]
canter -n. horse's pace between a trot and a gallop. -v. go or make go at a canter. [Canterbury gallop of medieval pilgrims]
canticle n. song or chant with a biblical text. [Latin canticum *chant]
cantilever n. 1 bracket or beam etc. projecting from a wall to support a balcony etc. 2 beam or girder fixed at one end only. cantilevered adj. [origin unknown]
cantilever bridge n. bridge made of cantilevers projecting from piers and connected by girders.
canto n. (pl. -s) division of a long poem. [Latin cantus: related to *chant]
canton -n. subdivision of a country, esp. of Switzerland. -v. put (troops) into quarters. [French, = corner: related to *cant2]
cantonment n. 1 lodging assigned to troops. 2 hist. permanent military station in India. [French: related to *canton]
cantor n. 1 church choir leader. 2 precentor in a synagogue. [Latin, = singer]
canvas -n. 1 strong coarse cloth used for sails and tents etc. and for oil-painting. 2 a painting on canvas, esp. in oils. -v. (-ss-; US -s-) cover with canvas. under canvas 1 in tents. 2 with sails spread. [Latin: related to *cannabis]
canvass -v. 1 solicit votes, esp. from a constituency electorate. 2 a ascertain the opinions of. b seek custom from. 3 propose (an idea or plan etc.). -n. canvassing, esp. of electors. canvasser n. [originally = toss in sheet, from *canvas]
canyon n. (also cañon) deep gorge. [Spanish cañón tube]
CAP abbr. Common Agricultural Policy (of the EC).
cap -n. 1 a soft brimless hat, usu. with a peak. b head-covering worn in a particular profession. c cap as a sign of membership of a sports team. d mortarboard. 2 a cover like a cap (kneecap). b top for a bottle, jar, pen, camera lens, etc. 3 = *Dutch cap. 4 = *percussion cap. 5 dental crown. -v. (-pp-) 1 a put a cap on. b cover the top or end of. c set a limit to (charge-capping). 2 award a sports cap to. 3 form the top of. 4 surpass, excel. cap in hand humbly. if the cap fits (of a remark) if it applies to you, so be it. to cap it all after everything else. [Latin cappa]
capability n. (pl. -ies) 1 ability, power. 2 undeveloped or unused faculty.
capable adj. 1 competent, able, gifted. 2 (foll. by of) a having the ability, fitness, etc. for. b admitting of (explanation, improvement, etc.). capably adv. [Latin capio hold]
capacious adj. roomy. capaciousness n. [Latin capax: related to *capable]
capacitance n. 1 ability to store electric charge. 2 ratio of change in the electric charge in a system to the corresponding change in its potential.
capacitor n. device able to store electric charge.
capacity n. (pl. -ies) 1 a power to contain, receive, experience, or produce (capacity for heat, pain, etc.). b maximum amount that can be contained or produced etc. c (attrib.) fully occupying the available space etc. (capacity crowd). 2 mental power. 3 position or function. 4 legal competence. to capacity fully. [Latin: related to *capacious]
caparison literary -n. 1 (usu. in pl.) horse's trappings. 2 equipment, finery. -v. adorn. [Spanish, = saddle-cloth]
cape1 n. 1 sleeveless cloak. 2 this worn over or as part of a longer cloak or coat. [Latin cappa *cap]
cape2 n. 1 headland, promontory. 2 (the Cape) the Cape of Good Hope. [Latin caput head]
caper1 -v. jump or run playfully. -n. 1 playful leap. 2 a prank. b slang illicit activity. cut a caper frolic. [abbreviation of *capriole]
caper2 n. 1 bramble-like shrub. 2 (in pl.) its pickled buds used esp. in a sauce. [Greek kapparis]
capercaillie n. (also capercailzie) large European grouse. [Gaelic, = horse of the forest]
capillarity n. the rise or depression of a liquid in a narrow tube. [French: related to *capillary]
capillary -attrib. adj. 1 of or like a hair, esp. (of a tube) of very small diameter. 2 of the branching blood-vessels connecting arteries and veins. -n. (pl. -ies) 1 capillary tube. 2 capillary blood vessel. [Latin capillus hair]
capillary action n. = *capillarity.
capital -n. 1 chief town or city of a country or region. 2 a money etc. with which a company starts in business. b accumulated wealth. 3 capitalists collectively. 4 capital letter. 5 head of a column or pillar. -adj. 1 a principal, most important. b colloq. excellent. 2 a involving punishment by death. b (of an error etc.) vitally harmful, fatal. 3 (of letters of the alphabet) large in size, used to begin sentences and names etc. make capital out of use to one's advantage. [Latin caput -itis head]
capital gain n. profit from the sale of investments or property.
capital goods n.pl. machinery, plant, etc.
capitalism n. economic and political system dependent on private capital and profit-making.
capitalist -n. 1 person investing or possessing capital. 2 advocate of capitalism. -adj. of or favouring capitalism. capitalistic adj.
capitalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 (foll. by on) use to one's advantage. 2 convert into or provide with capital. 3 a write (a letter of the alphabet) as a capital. b begin (a word) with a capital letter. capitalization n. [French: related to *capital]
capital levy n. tax on wealth or property.
capital sum n. lump sum, esp. payable to an insured person.
capital transfer tax n. hist. tax levied on the transfer of capital by gift or bequest etc.
Usage This tax was replaced in 1986 by inheritance tax.
capitation n. tax or fee paid per person. [Latin: related to *capital]
capitular adj. of a cathedral chapter. [Latin capitulum *chapter]
capitulate v. (-ting) surrender. capitulation n. [medieval Latin, = put under headings]
capo n. (pl. -s) device fitted across the strings of a guitar etc. to raise their pitch equally. [Italian capo tasto head stop]
capon n. castrated cock fattened for eating. [Latin capo]
cappuccino n. (pl. -s) frothy milky coffee. [Italian, = *Capuchin]
caprice n. 1 a whim. b tendency to this. 2 lively or fanciful work of art, music, etc. [Italian capriccio sudden start]
capricious adj. subject to whims; unpredictable. capriciously adv. capriciousness n.
Capricorn n. 1 constellation and tenth sign of the zodiac (the Goat). 2 person born when the sun is in this sign. [Latin caper -pri goat, cornu horn]
capriole -n. leap, caper, esp. of a trained horse. -v. (-ling) perform this. [Italian: related to *Capricorn]
capsicum n. 1 plant with edible fruits, esp. any of several varieties of pepper. 2 red, green, or yellow fruit of these. [Latin capsa case]
capsize v. (-zing) (of a boat etc.) be overturned; overturn. [Spanish capuzar sink]
capstan n. 1 thick revolving cylinder for winding a cable etc. 2 revolving spindle carrying the spool on a tape recorder. [Provençal]
capstan lathe n. lathe with a revolving tool-holder.
capsule n. 1 small edible soluble case enclosing medicine. 2 detachable compartment of a spacecraft or nose of a rocket. 3 enclosing membrane in the body. 4 dry fruit that releases its seeds when ripe. 5 (attrib.) concise; condensed. capsular adj. [Latin capsa case]
capsulize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) put (information etc.) in compact form.
Capt. abbr. Captain.
captain -n. 1 a chief, leader. b leader of a team. 2 a commander of a ship. b pilot of a civil aircraft. 3 army officer next above lieutenant. -v. be captain of; lead. captaincy n. (pl. -ies). [Latin caput head]
caption -n. 1 wording appended to an illustration, cartoon, etc. 2 wording on a cinema or television screen. 3 heading of a chapter, article, etc. -v. provide with a caption. [Latin capio take]
captious adj. fault-finding. [Latin: related to *caption]
captivate v. (-ting) fascinate; charm. captivation n. [Latin: related to *captive]
captive -n. confined or imprisoned person or animal. -adj. 1 taken prisoner; restrained. 2 unable to escape (captive audience). captivity n. [Latin capio capt- take]
captor n. person who captures. [Latin: related to *captive]
capture -v. (-ring) 1 a take prisoner; seize. b obtain by force or trickery. 2 portray; record on film etc. 3 absorb (a subatomic particle). 4 record (data) for use in a computer. -n. 1 act of capturing. 2 thing or person captured. [Latin: related to *captive]
Capuchin n. 1 Franciscan friar. 2 (capuchin) a monkey with cowl-like head hair. b pigeon with a cowl-like head and neck. [Italian cappuccio cowl]
capybara n. large semi-aquatic S. American rodent. [Tupi]
car n. 1 (in full motor car) motor vehicle for a driver and small number of passengers. 2 (in comb.) road vehicle or railway carriage esp. of a specified kind (tramcar; dining-car). 3 US any railway carriage or van. 4 passenger compartment of a lift, balloon, etc. [French from Latin]
caracul var. of *karakul.
carafe n. glass container for water or wine. [French from Arabic]
caramel n. 1 a burnt sugar or syrup as a flavouring or colouring. b a kind of soft toffee. 2 light-brown colour. caramelize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). [French from Spanish]
carapace n. upper shell of a tortoise or crustacean. [French from Spanish]
carat n. 1 unit of weight for precious stones (200 mg). 2 measure of purity of gold (pure gold = 24 carats). [French ultimately from Greek keras horn]
caravan -n. 1 vehicle equipped for living in and usu. towed by a car. 2 people travelling together, esp. across a desert. -v. (-nn-) travel or live in a caravan. caravanner n. [French from Persian]
caravanserai n. Eastern inn with a central court. [Persian, = caravan place]
caravel n. (also carvel) hist. small light fast ship. [Greek karabos, literally 'horned beetle']
caraway n. plant with tiny white flowers. [Spanish from Arabic]
caraway seed n. fruit of the caraway as flavouring and a source of oil.
carb n. colloq. carburettor. [abbreviation]
carbide n. 1 binary compound of carbon. 2 = *calcium carbide.
carbine n. short rifle orig. for cavalry use. [French]
carbohydrate n. energy-producing organic compound of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (e.g. starch, sugar).
carbolic n. (in full carbolic acid) phenol. [from *carbon]
carbolic soap n. soap containing carbolic.
car bomb n. terrorist bomb placed in or under a parked car.
carbon n. 1 non-metallic element occurring naturally as diamond, graphite, and charcoal, and in all organic compounds. 2 a = *carbon copy. b = *carbon paper. 3 rod of carbon in an arc lamp. [Latin carbo charcoal]
carbon-14 n. radioisotope of mass 14, used in carbon dating.
carbon-12 n. stable isotope of carbon, used as a standard.
carbonaceous adj. 1 consisting of or containing carbon. 2 of or like coal or charcoal.
carbonate -n. Chem. salt of carbonic acid. -v. (-ting) fill with carbon dioxide. [French: related to *carbon]
carbon copy n. 1 copy made with carbon paper. 2 exact copy.
carbon dating n. determination of the age of an organic object from the ratio of isotopes, which changes as carbon-14 decays.
carbon dioxide n. gas occurring naturally in the atmosphere and formed by respiration.
carbon fibre n. thin strong crystalline filament of carbon used as a strengthening material.
carbonic adj. containing carbon.
carbonic acid n. weak acid formed from carbon dioxide in water.
carboniferous -adj. 1 producing coal. 2 (Carboniferous) of the fifth period in the Palaeozoic era, with extensive formation of coal. -n. (Carboniferous) this period.
carbonize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 convert into carbon. 2 reduce to charcoal or coke. 3 coat with carbon. carbonization n.
carbon monoxide n. toxic gas formed by the incomplete burning of carbon.
carbon paper n. thin carbon-coated paper used for making copies.
carbon tetrachloride n. colourless liquid used as a solvent.
car-boot sale n. sale of goods from (tables stocked from) the boots of cars.
carborundum n. compound of carbon and silicon used esp. as an abrasive. [from *carbon, *corundum]
carboy n. large globular glass bottle usu. in a frame. [Persian]
carbuncle n. 1 severe skin abscess. 2 bright-red gem. [Latin: related to *carbon]
carburettor n. (US carburetor) apparatus in an internal-combustion engine for mixing petrol and air to make an explosive mixture.
carcass n. (also carcase) 1 dead body of an animal, esp. as meat. 2 bones of a cooked bird. 3 colloq. human body; corpse. 4 framework. 5 worthless remains. [French]
carcinogen n. substance producing cancer. carcinogenic adj. [related to *carcinoma]
carcinoma n. (pl. -s or -mata) cancerous tumour. [Greek karkinos crab]
card1 n. 1 thick stiff paper or thin pasteboard. 2 a piece of this for writing or printing on, esp. to send greetings, to identify a person, or to record information. b small rectangular piece of plastic used for identity etc. 3 a = *playing-card. b (in pl.) card-playing. 4 (in pl.) colloq. tax and national insurance documents etc., held by an employer. 5 programme of events at a race-meeting etc. 6 colloq. odd or amusing person. card up one's sleeve plan or secret weapon in reserve. get one's cards colloq. be dismissed from one's employment. on the cards possible or likely. put (or lay) one's cards on the table reveal one's resources, intentions, etc. [Greek khartes papyrus-leaf]
card2 -n. wire brush etc. for raising a nap on cloth etc. -v. brush or comb with a card. [Latin caro card (v.)]
cardamom n. seeds of an aromatic SE Asian plant used as a spice. [Latin from Greek]
cardboard n. pasteboard or stiff paper, esp. for making boxes.
cardboard city n. area where homeless people make shelters from cardboard boxes etc.
card-carrying adj. registered as a member (esp. of a political party or trade union).
card-game n. game using playing-cards.
cardiac adj. of the heart. [Greek kardia heart]
cardigan n. knitted jacket. [Earl of Cardigan]
cardinal -adj. 1 chief, fundamental. 2 deep scarlet. -n. 1 (as a title Cardinal) leading Roman Catholic dignitary, one of the college electing the Pope. 2 small scarlet American songbird. [Latin cardo -din- hinge]
cardinal number n. number denoting quantity (1, 2, 3, etc.), as opposed to an ordinal number.
cardinal points n.pl. four main points of the compass (N., S., E., W.).
cardinal virtues n.pl. justice, prudence, temperance, and fortitude.
card index n. index with a card for each entry.
cardiogram n. record of heart movements. [Greek kardia heart]
cardiograph n. instrument recording heart movements. cardiographer n. cardiography n.
cardiology n. branch of medicine concerned with the heart. cardiologist n.
cardiovascular adj. of the heart and blood-vessels.
cardoon n. thistle-like plant with leaves used as a vegetable. [French from Latin]
cardphone n. public telephone operated by a machine-readable card instead of money.
card-sharp n. (also card-sharper) swindler at card-games.
card-table n. (esp. folding) table for card-playing.
card vote n. = *block vote.
care -n. 1 worry, anxiety. 2 cause of this. 3 serious attention; caution. 4 a protection, looking after, charge. b = *child care. 5 thing to be done or seen to. -v. (-ring) 1 (usu. foll. by about, for, whether) feel concern or interest. 2 (usu. foll. by for) like, be fond of (don't care for jazz). 3 (foll. by to + infin.) wish or be willing (would you care to try?). care for provide for; look after. care of at the address of. in care (of a child) in local authority care. not care a damn etc. = not give a damn etc. (see *give). take care 1 be careful. 2 (foll. by to + infin.) not fail or neglect. take care of 1 look after. 2 deal with, dispose of. [Old English, = sorrow]
careen v. 1 turn (a ship) on one side for repair etc. 2 tilt, lean over. 3 swerve about. [Latin carina keel]
Usage Sense 3 of careen is influenced by the verb career.
career -n. 1 one's professional etc. progress through life. 2 profession or occupation, esp. as offering advancement. 3 (attrib.) a pursuing or wishing to pursue a career (career woman). b working permanently in a specified profession (career diplomat). 4 swift course (in full career). -v. 1 move or swerve about wildly. 2 go swiftly. [Latin: related to *car]
careerist n. person predominantly concerned with personal advancement.
carefree adj. light-hearted; joyous.
careful adj. 1 painstaking, thorough. 2 cautious. 3 taking care; not neglecting (careful to remind them). carefully adv. carefulness n.
careless adj. 1 lacking care or attention. 2 unthinking, insensitive. 3 light-hearted. 4 (foll. by of) not concerned about. carelessly adv. carelessness n.
carer n. person who cares for a sick or elderly person, esp. a relative at home.
caress -v. touch or stroke gently or lovingly. -n. loving or gentle touch. [Latin carus dear]
caret n. mark (^) indicating a proposed insertion in printing or writing. [Latin, = is lacking]
caretaker n. 1 person employed to look after a house, building, etc. 2 (attrib.) exercising temporary authority (caretaker government).
careworn adj. showing the effects of prolonged worry.
cargo n. (pl. -es or -s) goods carried on a ship or aircraft. [Spanish: related to *charge]
Carib -n. 1 aboriginal inhabitant of the southern W. Indies or adjacent coasts. 2 their language. -adj. of the Caribs. [Spanish from Haitian]
Caribbean adj. of the Caribs or the W. Indies generally.
caribou n. (pl. same) N. American reindeer. [French from American Indian]
caricature -n. 1 grotesque usu. comically exaggerated representation esp. of a person. 2 ridiculously poor imitation or version. -v. (-ring) make or give a caricature of. caricaturist n. [Italian caricare exaggerate]
caries n. (pl. same) decay of a tooth or bone. [Latin]
carillon n. 1 set of bells sounded either from a keyboard or mechanically. 2 tune played on bells. [French]
caring adj. 1 kind, humane. 2 (attrib.) concerned with looking after people (caring professions).
carioca n. 1 Brazilian dance like the samba. 2 music for this. [Portuguese]
Carmelite -n. 1 friar of the order of Our Lady of Carmel. 2 nun of a similar order. -adj. of the Carmelites. [Mt. Carmel in Palestine, where the order was founded]
carminative -adj. relieving flatulence. -n. carminative drug. [Latin carmino heal by *charm]
carmine -adj. of vivid crimson colour. -n. 1 this colour. 2 carmine pigment made from cochineal. [probably from Latin carmesinum *crimson]
carnage n. great slaughter, esp. in battle. [Latin: related to *carnal]
carnal adj. 1 of the body or flesh; worldly. 2 sensual, sexual. carnality n. [Latin caro carn- flesh]
carnal
/ 5kB:nl; `kBrnEl/ adj (fml ñ_) of the body; sexual or sensual ª++_¬¦; _-¬¦; +P_x¬¦: carnal desires ª++ñ. > carnally / 5kB:nElI; `kBrnElI/ adv.
carnation -n. 1 clove-scented pink. 2 rosy-pink colour. -adj. rosy-pink. [Italian: related to *carnal because of the flesh-colour]
Civilized people cannot fully satisfy their sexual instinct without love.
Bertrand Russell (1872 - 1970)
British philosopher and mathematician.
Microsoft® Encarta® Reference Library 2003. © 1993-2002 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
carnelian var. of *cornelian.
carnet n. permit to drive across a frontier, use a camp-site, etc. [French, = notebook]
carnival n. 1 a annual festivities including a parade through the streets in fancy dress. b festival preceding Lent. 2 merrymaking. 3 US funfair or circus. [Latin carnem levo put away meat]
carnivore n. carnivorous animal or plant, esp. a mammal of the order including cats, dogs, and bears.
carnivorous adj. (of an animal or plant) feeding on flesh. [Latin: related to *carnal, voro devour]
carob n. seed pod of a Mediterranean tree used as a chocolate substitute. [Arabic karruba]
carol -n. joyous song, esp. a Christmas hymn. -v. (-ll-; US -l-) 1 sing carols. 2 sing joyfully. [French]
Carolingian -adj. of the Frankish dynasty founded by Charlemagne. -n. member of this dynasty. [Latin Carolus Charles]
carotene n. orange-coloured pigment found in carrots, tomatoes, etc., acting as a source of vitamin A. [Latin: related to *carrot]
carotid -n. each of the two main arteries carrying blood to the head and neck. -adj. of these arteries. [Latin from Greek]
carouse -v. (-sing) have a lively drinking-party. -n. such a party. carousal n. carouser n. [German gar aus (drink) right out]
carousel n. 1 US merry-go-round. 2 rotating luggage delivery system at an airport etc. [French from Italian]
carp1 n. (pl. same) freshwater fish often bred for food. [Provençal or Latin]
carp2 v. find fault; complain pettily. carper n. [Old Norse, = brag]
carpal -adj. of the bones in the wrist. -n. wrist-bone. [from *carpus]
car park n. area for parking cars.
carpel n. female reproductive organ of a flower. [Greek karpos fruit]
carpenter -n. person skilled in woodwork. -v. 1 make or construct in wood. 2 construct; fit together. carpentry n. [Latin carpentum wagon]
carpet -n. 1 a thick fabric for covering floor or stairs. b piece of this. 2 thing resembling this etc. (carpet of snow). -v. (-t-) 1 cover with or as with carpet. 2 colloq. reprimand. on the carpet colloq. 1 being reprimanded. 2 under consideration. sweep under the carpet conceal (a problem or difficulty). [Latin carpo pluck]
carpet-bag n. travelling-bag, orig. made of carpet-like material.
carpet-bagger n. colloq. 1 esp. US political candidate etc. without local connections. 2 unscrupulous opportunist.
carpeting n. 1 material for carpets. 2 carpets collectively.
carpet slipper n. soft slipper.
carpet-sweeper n. household implement for sweeping carpets.
car phone n. radio-telephone for use in a car etc.
carport n. roofed open-sided shelter for a car.
carpus n. (pl. -pi) small bones forming the wrist in humans and similar parts in other mammals. [Latin from Greek]
carrageen n. (also carragheen) edible red seaweed. [origin uncertain]
carrel n. small cubicle for a reader in a library. [French from medieval Latin]
carriage n. 1 railway passenger vehicle. 2 wheeled horse-drawn passenger vehicle. 3 a conveying of goods. b cost of this. 4 carrying part of a machine (e.g. a typewriter). 5 gun-carriage. 6 bearing, deportment. [French: related to *carry]
carriage clock n. portable clock with a handle.
carriageway n. the part of a road intended for vehicles.
carrier n. 1 person or thing that carries. 2 transport or freight company. 3 = *carrier bag. 4 framework on a bicycle for luggage or a passenger. 5 person or animal that may transmit disease etc. without suffering from it. 6 = *aircraft-carrier.
carrier bag n. plastic or paper bag with handles.
carrier pigeon n. pigeon trained to carry messages.
carrier wave n. high-frequency electromagnetic wave modulated in amplitude or frequency to convey a signal.
carrion n. 1 dead putrefying flesh. 2 something vile or filthy. [Latin caro flesh]
carrion crow n. crow feeding on carrion.
carrot n. 1 a plant with a tapering orange-coloured root. b this as a vegetable. 2 incentive. carroty adj. [Greek karoton]
carry -v. (-ies, -ied) 1 support or hold up, esp. while moving. 2 convey with one or have on one's person. 3 conduct or transmit (pipe carries water). 4 (often foll. by to) take (a process etc.) to a specified point; continue; prolong (carry into effect; carry a joke too far). 5 involve, imply (carries 6% interest). 6 Math. transfer (a figure) to a column of higher value. 7 hold in a specified way (carry oneself erect). 8 a (of a newspaper etc.) publish. b (of a radio or television station) broadcast. 9 keep a regular stock of. 10 a (of sound) be audible at a distance. b (of a missile or gun etc.) travel or propel to a specified distance. 11 a win victory or acceptance for (a proposal etc.). b win acceptance from (carried the audience with her). c win, capture (a prize, fortress, etc.). 12 a endure the weight of; support. b be the driving force in (you carry the department). 13 be pregnant with. -n. (pl. -ies) 1 act of carrying. 2 Golf distance a ball travels before reaching the ground. carry away 1 remove. 2 inspire. 3 deprive of self-control (got carried away). carry the can colloq. bear the responsibility or blame. carry the day be victorious or successful. carry forward transfer to a new page or account. carry it off do well under difficulties. carry off 1 take away, esp. by force. 2 win (a prize). 3 (esp. of a disease) kill. carry on 1 continue. 2 engage in (conversation or business). 3 colloq. behave strangely or excitedly. 4 (often foll. by with) colloq. flirt or have a love affair. carry out put (an idea etc.) into practice. carry over 1 = carry forward. 2 postpone. carry through 1 complete successfully. 2 bring safely out of difficulties. carry weight be influential or important. [Anglo-French: related to *car]
carry-cot n. portable cot for a baby.
carryings-on n.pl. = *carry-on.
carry-on n. slang 1 fuss, excitement. 2 questionable behaviour. 3 flirtation or love affair.
carry-out attrib. adj. & n. esp. Scot. & US = *take-away.
carsick adj. nauseous from car travel. carsickness n.
cart -n. 1 open usu. horse-drawn vehicle for carrying loads. 2 light vehicle for pulling by hand. -v. 1 convey in a cart. 2 slang carry or convey with effort. put the cart before the horse reverse the proper order or procedure. [Old Norse]
carte blanche n. full discretionary power. [French, = blank paper]
cartel n. union of suppliers etc. to control prices. [Italian diminutive: related to *card1]
Cartesian -adj. of Descartes or his philosophy. -n. follower of Descartes. [Latin Cartesius Descartes]
Cartesian coordinates n.pl. system for locating a point by reference to its distance from axes intersecting at right angles.
cart-horse n. thickset horse.
cart-horse n. thickset horse.
Carthusian -n. monk of a contemplative order founded by St Bruno. -adj. of this order. [Latin: related to *chartreuse]
cartilage n. firm flexible connective tissue, mainly replaced by bone in adulthood. cartilaginous adj. [French from Latin]
cartography n. map-drawing. cartographer n. cartographic adj. [French carte map]
carton n. light esp. cardboard box or container. [French: related to *cartoon]
cartoon n. 1 humorous, esp. topical, drawing in a newspaper etc. 2 sequence of drawings telling a story. 3 animated sequence of these on film. 4 full-size preliminary design for a tapestry etc. cartoonist n. [Italian: related to *card1]
cartouche n. 1 scroll-like ornamentation. 2 oval ring enclosing the name and title of a pharaoh. [French: related to *cartoon]
cartridge n. 1 case containing an explosive charge or bullet for firearms or blasting. 2 sealed container of film etc. 3 component carrying the stylus on a record-player. 4 ink-container for insertion in a pen. [French: related to *cartoon]
cartridge-belt n. belt with pockets or loops for cartridges.
cartridge paper n. thick paper for drawing etc.
cartwheel n. 1 wheel of a cart. 2 circular sideways handspring with arms and legs extended.
cart-wright n. maker of carts.
carve v. (-ving) 1 produce or shape by cutting. 2 a cut patterns etc. in. b (foll. by into) form a pattern etc. from (carved it into a bust). 3 (absol.) cut (meat etc.) into slices. carve out 1 take from a larger whole. 2 establish (a career etc.) purposefully. carve up 1 subdivide. 2 drive aggressively into the path of (another vehicle). [Old English]
carvel var. of *caravel.
carvel-built adj. (of a boat) made with planks flush, not overlapping.
carver n. 1 person who carves. 2 carving knife. 3 chair with arms, for a person carving.
carvery n. (pl. -ies) buffet or restaurant with joints displayed for carving.
carve-up n. slang sharing-out, esp. of spoils.
carving n. carved object, esp. as a work of art.
carving knife n. knife for carving meat.
Casanova n. notorious womanizer. [Italian adventurer]
cascade -n. 1 small waterfall, esp. one of series. 2 thing falling or arranged like a cascade. -v. (-ding) fall in or like a cascade. [Latin: related to *case1]
cascara n. bark of a Californian buckthorn, used as a laxative. [Spanish]
case1 n. 1 instance of something occurring. 2 hypothetical or actual situation. 3 a person's illness, circumstances, etc., as regarded by a doctor, social worker, etc. b such a person. 4 matter under esp. police investigation. 5 suit at law. 6 a sum of the arguments on one side, esp. in a lawsuit. b set of arguments (have a good case). c valid set of arguments (have no case). 7 Gram. a relation of a word to other words in a sentence. b form of a noun, adjective, or pronoun expressing this. 8 colloq. comical person. in any case whatever the truth is; whatever may happen. in case 1 in the event that; if. 2 lest; in provision against a possibility (took it in case). in case of in the event of. is (or is not) the case is (or is not) so. [Latin casus from cado fall]
case2 -n. 1 container or enclosing covering. 2 this with its contents. 3 protective outer covering. 4 item of luggage, esp. a suitcase. -v. (-sing) 1 enclose in a case. 2 (foll. by with) surround. 3 slang reconnoitre (a house etc.) before burgling it. [Latin capsa box]
case-harden v. 1 harden the surface of (esp. iron by carbonizing). 2 make callous.
case history n. record of a person's life or medical history for use in professional treatment.
casein n. the main protein in milk and cheese. [Latin caseus cheese]
case-law n. law as established by the outcome of former cases.
casemate n. 1 embrasured room in a fortress wall. 2 armoured enclosure for guns on a warship. [French and Italian]
casement n. window or part of a window hinged to open like a door. [Anglo-Latin: related to *case2]
casework n. social work concerned with studying a person's family and background. caseworker n.
cash -n. 1 money in coins or notes. 2 (also cash down) full payment at the time of purchase. 3 colloq. wealth. -v. give or obtain cash for (a note, cheque, etc.). cash in 1 obtain cash for. 2 colloq. (usu. foll. by on) profit (from); take advantage (of). cash up count and check the day's takings. [Latin: related to *case2]
cash and carry n. 1 system (esp. in wholesaling) of cash payment for goods taken away by the purchaser. 2 store where this operates.
cash-book n. book for recording receipts and cash payments.
cashcard n. plastic card for withdrawing money from a cash dispenser.
cash crop n. crop produced for sale.
cash desk n. counter etc. where payment is made in a shop.
cash dispenser n. automatic machine for the withdrawal of cash, esp. with a cashcard.
cashew n. 1 evergreen tree bearing kidney-shaped nuts. 2 this edible nut. [Portuguese from Tupi]
cash flow n. movement of money into and out of a business.
cashier1 n. person dealing with cash transactions in a shop, bank, etc.
cashier2 v. dismiss from service, esp. with disgrace. [French: related to *quash]
cashmere n. 1 fine soft wool, esp. that of a Kashmir goat. 2 material made from this. [Kashmir in Asia]
cash on delivery n. payment for goods when they are delivered.
cashpoint n. = *cash dispenser.
cash register n. till recording sales, totalling receipts, etc.
casing n. protective or enclosing cover or material.
casino n. (pl. -s) public room or building for gambling. [Italian diminutive of casa house]
cask n. 1 barrel, esp. for alcohol. 2 its contents. [French casque or Spanish casco helmet]
casket n. 1 small often ornamental box for jewels etc. 2 US coffin. [Latin: related to *case2]
cassata n. ice-cream containing fruit and nuts. [Italian]
cassava n. 1 plant with starchy roots. 2 starch or flour from these, used e.g. in tapioca. [Taino]
casserole -n. 1 covered dish for cooking food in the oven. 2 food cooked in this. -v. (-ling) cook in a casserole. [Greek kuathion little cup]
cassette n. sealed case containing magnetic tape, film etc., ready for insertion in a tape recorder, camera, etc. [French diminutive: related to *case2]
cassia n. 1 tree from the leaves of which senna is extracted. 2 cinnamon-like bark of this used as a spice. [Greek kasia from Hebrew]
cassis n. blackcurrant flavouring for drinks etc. [French]
cassock n. long usu. black or red clerical garment. cassocked adj. [French from Italian]
cassoulet n. ragout of meat and beans. [French]
cassowary n. (pl. -ies) large flightless Australasian bird. [Malay]
cast -v. (past and past part. cast) 1 throw, esp. deliberately or forcefully. 2 (often foll. by on, over) a direct or cause (one's eyes, a glance, light, a shadow, a spell, etc.) to fall. b express (doubts, aspersions, etc.). 3 throw out (a fishing-line etc.) into the water. 4 let down (an anchor etc.). 5 a throw off, get rid of. b shed or lose (horns, skin, a horseshoe, etc.). 6 register (a vote). 7 a shape (molten metal etc.) in a mould. b make thus. 8 a (usu. foll. by as) assign (an actor) to a role. b allocate roles in (a play etc.). 9 (foll. by in, into) arrange (facts etc.) in a specified form. 10 reckon, add up (accounts or figures). 11 calculate (a horoscope). -n. 1 throwing of a missile, dice, line, net, etc. 2 a object made in a mould. b moulded mass of solidified material, esp. plaster for a broken limb. 3 actors in a play etc. 4 form, type, or quality. 5 tinge or shade of colour. 6 slight squint. 7 worm-cast. cast about (or around) search. cast adrift leave to drift. cast aside abandon. cast loose detach (oneself). cast lots see *lot. cast off 1 abandon. 2 finish a piece of knitting. 3 set a ship free from a quay etc. cast on make the first row of a piece of knitting. cast up 1 deposit on the shore. 2 add up (figures etc.). [Old Norse]
castanet n. (usu. in pl.) each of a pair of hand-held pieces of wood etc., clicked together as an accompaniment, esp. by Spanish dancers. [Latin: related to *chestnut]
castaway -n. shipwrecked person. -adj. shipwrecked.
caste n. 1 any of the Hindu hereditary classes whose members have no social contact with other classes. 2 exclusive social class or system of classes. lose caste descend in social order. [Spanish and Portuguese: related to *chaste]
casteism n. caste system.
castellated adj. 1 having battlements. 2 castle-like. castellation n. [medieval Latin: related to *castle]
caster var. of *castor.
castigate v. (-ting) rebuke or punish severely. castigation n. castigator n. [Latin castus pure]
casting n. cast, esp. of molten metal.
casting vote n. deciding vote when the votes on two sides are equal. [from an obsolete sense of cast, = turn the scale]
cast iron n. hard alloy of iron, carbon, and silicon cast in a mould.
cast-iron adj. 1 of cast iron. 2 very strong; rigid; unchallengeable.
castle -n. 1 large fortified building with towers and battlements. 2 Chess = *rook2. -v. (-ling) Chess move a rook next to the king and the king to the other side of the rook. castles in the air day-dream; impractical scheme. [Latin castellum]
cast-off -adj. abandoned, discarded. -n. cast-off thing, esp. a garment.
castor n. (also caster) 1 small swivelled wheel on the leg or underside of a piece of furniture. 2 small perforated container for sprinkling sugar, flour, etc. [from *cast]
castor oil n. oil from the seeds of a tropical plant, used as a purgative and lubricant. [origin uncertain]
castor sugar n. finely granulated white sugar.
castrate v. (-ting) 1 remove the testicles of; geld. 2 deprive of vigour. castration n. [Latin castro]
castrato n. (pl. -ti) hist. castrated male soprano or alto singer. [Italian: related to *castrate]
casual -adj. 1 accidental; chance. 2 not regular or permanent (casual work). 3 a unconcerned. b careless; unthinking. 4 (of clothes) informal. -n. 1 casual worker. 2 (usu. in pl.) casual clothes or shoes. casually adv. casualness n. [French and Latin: related to *case1]
casualty n. (pl. -ies) 1 person killed or injured in a war or accident. 2 thing lost or destroyed. 3 = *casualty department. 4 accident, mishap. [medieval Latin: related to *casual]
casualty department n. part of a hospital where casualties are dealt with.
casuist n. 1 person who uses clever but false reasoning in matters of conscience etc. 2 sophist, quibbler. casuistic adj. casuistry n. [Latin: related to *case1]
cat n. 1 small soft-furred four-legged domesticated animal. 2 wild animal of the same family, e.g. lion, tiger. 3 colloq. malicious or spiteful woman. 4 = *cat-o'-nine-tails. the cat's whiskers colloq. excellent person or thing. let the cat out of the bag reveal a secret. like a cat on hot bricks very agitated. put (or set) the cat among the pigeons cause trouble. rain cats and dogs rain hard. [Latin cattus]
cata- prefix 1 down. 2 wrongly. [Greek]
catabolism n. breakdown of complex molecules in living organisms to release energy; destructive metabolism. catabolic adj. [Greek katabole throwing down]
catachresis n. (pl. -chreses) incorrect use of words. catachrestic adj. [Greek khraomai use]
cataclysm n. 1 a violent upheaval or disaster. b great change. 2 great flood. cataclysmic adj. [Greek kluzo wash]
catacomb n. (often in pl.) underground cemetery, esp. Roman. [French from Latin]
catafalque n. decorated bier, used esp. in State funerals or for lying in state. [French from Italian]
Catalan -n. native or language of Catalonia in Spain. -adj. of Catalonia. [French from Spanish]
catalepsy n. trance or seizure with unconsciousness and rigidity of the body. cataleptic adj. & n. [Greek lepsis seizure]
catalog (Brit. catalogue) -n. 1 complete alphabetical or otherwise ordered list of items, often with a description of each. 2 extensive list (catalog of disasters). -v. (-logs, -loged, -loging; Brit. -logues, -logued, -loguing) 1 make a catalog of. 2 enter in a catalog. [Greek lego choose]
catalogue (US catalog) -n. 1 complete alphabetical or otherwise ordered list of items, often with a description of each. 2 extensive list (catalogue of disasters). -v. (-logues, -logued, -loguing; US -logs, -loged, -loging) 1 make a catalogue of. 2 enter in a catalogue. [Greek lego choose]
catalpa n. tree with long pods and showy flowers. [N. American Indian]
catalyse v. (US -yze) (-sing or -zing) produce (a reaction) by catalysis.
catalysis n. (pl. -lyses) acceleration of a chemical reaction by a catalyst. [Greek luo set free]
catalyst n. 1 substance that does not itself change, but speeds up a chemical reaction. 2 person or thing that precipitates change.
catalytic adj. of or involving catalysis.
catalytic converter n. device incorporated in a vehicle's exhaust system, with a catalyst for converting pollutant gases into harmless products.
catalyze v. (Brit. -yse) produce (a reaction) by catalysis.
catamaran n. 1 boat with parallel twin hulls. 2 raft of yoked logs or boats. [Tamil]
catamite n. passive partner (esp. a boy) in homosexual practices. [Latin, = Ganymede]
cat-and-dog adj. (of a relationship etc.) quarrelsome.
catapult -n. 1 forked stick etc. with elastic for shooting stones. 2 Mil hist. machine for hurling large stones etc. 3 device for launching a glider etc. -v. 1 a hurl from or launch with a catapult. b fling forcibly. 2 leap or be hurled forcibly. [Latin from Greek]
cataract n. 1 a large waterfall. b downpour; rush of water. 2 eye condition in which the lens becomes progressively opaque. [Greek katarrhaktes, = down-rushing]
catarrh n. 1 inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose, air-passages, etc. 2 mucus caused by this. catarrhal adj. [Greek rheo flow]
catastrophe n. 1 great and usu. sudden disaster. 2 denouement of a drama. catastrophic adj. catastrophically adv. [Greek strepho turn]
catatonia n. 1 schizophrenia with intervals of catalepsy and sometimes violence. 2 catalepsy. catatonic adj. & n. [Greek: related to *cata-, *tone]
cat burglar n. burglar who enters by climbing to an upper storey.
catcall -n. shrill whistle of disapproval. -v. make a catcall.
catch -v. (past and past part. caught) 1 capture in a trap, one's hands, etc. 2 detect or surprise (esp. a guilty person). 3 a intercept and hold (a moving thing) in the hands etc. b Cricket dismiss (a batsman) by catching the ball before it reaches the ground. 4 a contract (a disease) from an infected person. b acquire (a quality etc.) from another. 5 a reach in time and board (a train, bus, etc.). b be in time to see etc. (a person or thing about to leave or finish). 6 apprehend with the senses or mind (esp. a thing occurring quickly or briefly). 7 (of an artist etc.) reproduce faithfully. 8 a (cause to) become fixed, entangled, or checked. b (often foll. by on) hit, deal a blow to (caught his elbow on the table). 9 draw the attention of; captivate (caught his eye; caught her fancy). 10 begin to burn. 11 reach or overtake (a person etc. ahead). 12 (foll. by at) try to grasp. -n. 1 a act of catching. b Cricket etc. chance or act of catching the ball. 2 a amount of a thing caught, esp. of fish. b thing or person caught or worth catching, esp. in marriage. 3 a question, trick, etc., intended to deceive, incriminate, etc. b unexpected or hidden difficulty or disadvantage. 4 device for fastening a door or window etc. 5 Mus. round, esp. with words arranged to produce a humorous effect. catch fire see *fire. catch hold of grasp, seize. catch it slang be punished. catch on colloq. 1 become popular. 2 understand what is meant. catch out 1 detect in a mistake etc. 2 take unawares. 3 = sense 3b of v. catch up 1 a (often foll. by with) reach a person etc. ahead (caught us up; caught up with us). b (often foll. by with, on) make up arrears. 2 pick up hurriedly. 3 (often in passive) a involve; entangle (caught up in crime). b fasten up (hair caught up in a ribbon). [Latin capto try to catch]
catch-all n. (often attrib.) thing designed to be all-inclusive.
catch-as-catch-can n. wrestling with few holds barred.
catching adj. (of a disease, practice, etc.) infectious.
catchline n. short line of type, esp. at the head of copy or as a running headline.
catchment n. collection of rainfall.
catchment area n. 1 area served by a school, hospital, etc. 2 area from which rainfall flows into a river etc.
catchpenny attrib. adj. intended merely to sell quickly; superficially attractive.
catch-phrase n. phrase in frequent use.
catch-22 n. (often attrib.) colloq. unresolvable situation containing conflicting or mutually dependent conditions.
catchweight -adj. unrestricted as regards weight. -n. unrestricted weight category in sports.
catchword n. 1 phrase, word, or slogan in frequent current use. 2 word so placed as to draw attention.
catchy adj. (-ier, -iest) (of a tune) easy to remember, attractive.
cat door var. of *cat flap.
catechism n. 1 a principles of a religion in the form of questions and answers. b book containing this. 2 series of questions. [Church Latin: related to *catechize]
catechist n. religious teacher, esp. one using a catechism.
catechize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) instruct by using a catechism. [Greek katekheo cause to hear]
catechumen n. Christian convert under instruction before baptism. [Church Latin catechumenus]
categorical adj. unconditional, absolute; explicit. categorically adv. [related to *category]
categorize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) place in a category. categorization n.
category n. (pl. -ies) class or division (of things, ideas, etc.). [Greek, = statement]
cater v. 1 supply food. 2 (foll. by for) provide what is needed or desired (caters for all tastes). 3 (foll. by to) pander to (esp. low tastes). [Anglo-French acatour buyer, from Latin capto: related to *catch]
caterer n. professional supplier of food for social events.
caterpillar n. 1 larva of a butterfly or moth. 2 (Caterpillar) a (in full Caterpillar track or tread) propr. steel band passing round the wheels of a tractor etc. for travel on rough ground. b vehicle with these. [Anglo-French, = hairy cat]
caterwaul -v. make the shrill howl of a cat. -n. this noise. [from *cat, -waul imitative]
catfish n. (pl. same) freshwater fish with whisker-like barbels round the mouth.
cat flap n. (also cat door) small swinging flap in an outer door, for a cat to pass in and out.
catgut n. material used for the strings of musical instruments and surgical sutures, made of intestines of the sheep, horse, etc. (but not cat).
catharsis n. (pl. catharses) 1 emotional release in drama or art. 2 Psychol. freeing and elimination of repressed emotion. 3 emptying of the bowels. [Greek katharos clean]
cathartic -adj. 1 effecting catharsis. 2 laxative. -n. laxative.
cathedral n. principal church of a diocese. [Greek kathedra seat]
Catherine wheel n. flat coiled firework spinning when lit. [St Catherine, who was martyred on a spiked wheel]
catheter n. tube inserted into a body cavity for introducing or removing fluid. [Greek kathiemi send down]
cathode n. Electr. 1 negative electrode in an electrolytic cell. 2 positive terminal of a battery etc. [Greek kathodos way down]
cathode ray n. beam of electrons from the cathode of a vacuum tube.
cathode-ray tube n. vacuum tube in which cathode rays produce a luminous image on a fluorescent screen.
catholic -adj. 1 all-embracing; of wide sympathies or interests. 2 of interest or use to all; universal. 3 (Catholic) a Roman Catholic. b including all Christians, or all of the Western Church. -n. (Catholic) Roman Catholic. Catholicism n. catholicity n. [Greek holos whole]
cation n. positively charged ion. cationic adj. [from *cata-, *ion]
catkin n. small spike of usu. hanging flowers on a willow, hazel, etc. [Dutch, = kitten]
catlick n. colloq. perfunctory wash.
catmint n. pungent plant attractive to cats.
catnap -n. short sleep. -v. (-pp-) have a catnap.
catnip n. = *catmint. [from *cat, dial. nip catmint]
cat-o'-nine-tails n. hist. whip with nine knotted lashes.
cat's cradle n. child's game of forming patterns from a loop of string.
Cat's-eye n. propr. reflector stud set into a road.
cat's-eye n. precious stone.
cat's-paw n. 1 person used as a tool by another. 2 slight breeze.
catsuit n. close-fitting garment with trouser legs, covering the whole body.
catsup US var. of *ketchup.
cattery n. (pl. -ies) place where cats are boarded or bred.
cattle n.pl. large ruminant animals with horns and cloven hoofs, esp. bred for milk or meat. [Anglo-French catel: related to *capital]
cattle-grid n. grid over a ditch, allowing people and vehicles but not livestock to pass over.
catty adj. (-ier, -iest) spiteful. cattily adv. cattiness n.
catwalk n. narrow footway or platform.
Caucasian -adj. 1 of the White or light-skinned race. 2 of the Caucasus. -n. Caucasian person. [Caucasus in Georgia]
Caucasoid adj. of Caucasians.
caucus n. (pl. -es) 1 US meeting of party members, esp. in the Senate etc., to decide policy. 2 often derog. a meeting of a group within a larger organization or party. b such a group. [perhaps from Algonquian]
caudal adj. 1 of or like a tail. 2 of the posterior part of the body. [Latin cauda tail]
caudate adj. tailed.
caught past and past part. of *catch.
caul n. 1 membrane enclosing a foetus. 2 part of this occasionally found on a child's head at birth. [French]
cauldron n. (also caldron) large deep vessel used for boiling. [Latin caldarium hot bath]
cauliflower n. cabbage with a large white flower-head. [French chou fleuri flowered cabbage]
cauliflower ear n. ear thickened by repeated blows.
caulk v. (also calk) 1 stop up (the seams of a boat etc.). 2 make (esp. a boat) watertight. [Latin calco tread]
causal adj. 1 of or forming a cause. 2 relating to cause and effect. causally adv.
causality n. 1 relation of cause and effect. 2 principle that everything has a cause.
causation n. 1 act of causing. 2 = *causality.
causative adj. acting as or expressing a cause.
cause -n. 1 a thing that produces an effect. b person or thing that occasions or produces something. c reason or motive. 2 adequate reason (show cause). 3 principle, belief, or purpose. 4 a matter to be settled at law. b case offered at law (plead a cause). -v. (-sing) be the cause of, produce, make happen. [Latin causa]
cause célèbre n. (pl. causes célèbres pronunc. same) lawsuit that attracts much interest. [French]
causerie n. (pl. -s pronunc. same) informal article or talk. [French]
causeway n. 1 raised road across low ground or water. 2 raised path by a road. [Anglo-French caucée from Latin *calx]
caustic -adj. 1 corrosive; burning. 2 sarcastic, biting. -n. caustic substance. caustically adv. causticity n. [Greek kaio burn]
caustic soda n. sodium hydroxide.
cauterize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) burn (tissue), esp. to stop bleeding. [French: related to *caustic]
caution -n. 1 attention to safety; prudence, carefulness. 2 a Law warning, esp. a formal one. b warning and reprimand. 3 colloq. amusing or surprising person or thing. -v. 1 warn or admonish. 2 issue a caution to. [Latin caveo take heed]
cautionary adj. giving or serving as a warning.
cautious adj. having or showing caution. cautiously adv. cautiousness n.
cavalcade n. procession or assembly of riders, vehicles, etc. [Italian: related to *chevalier]
cavalier -n. 1 hist. (Cavalier) supporter of Charles I in the Civil War. 2 courtly gentleman. 3 archaic horseman. -adj. offhand, supercilious, curt. [related to *cavalcade]
cavalry n. (pl. -ies) (usu. treated as pl.) soldiers on horseback or in armoured vehicles. [related to *cavalcade]
cave -n. large hollow in the side of a cliff, hill, etc., or underground. -v. (-ving) explore caves. cave in 1 (cause to) subside or collapse. 2 yield, give up. [Latin cavus hollow]
caveat n. 1 warning, proviso. 2 Law process in court to suspend proceedings. [Latin, = let him beware]
caveat emptor n. principle that the buyer alone is responsible if dissatisfied. [Latin, = let the buyer beware]
caveman n. 1 prehistoric person living in caves. 2 crude person.
cavern n. cave, esp. a large or dark one. cavernous adj. [Latin caverna: related to *cave]
caviar n. (Brit. caviare) pickled roe of sturgeon or other large fish. [Italian from Turkish]
caviare n. (US caviar) pickled roe of sturgeon or other large fish. [Italian from Turkish]
cavil -v. (-ll-, US -l-) (usu. foll. by at, about) make petty objections; carp. -n. petty objection. [Latin cavillor]
cavity n. (pl. -ies) 1 hollow within a solid body. 2 decayed part of a tooth. [Latin: related to *cave]
cavity wall n. double wall with a space between.
cavort v. caper excitedly. [origin uncertain]
cavy n. (pl. -ies) small S. American rodent, esp. the guinea pig. [Latin from Galibi]
caw -n. harsh cry of a rook, crow, etc. -v. utter this cry. [imitative]
cayenne n. (in full cayenne pepper) powdered red pepper. [Tupi]
cayman n. (also caiman) (pl. -s) S. American alligator-like reptile. [Spanish and Portuguese from Carib]
CB abbr. 1 citizens' band. 2 Companion of the Order of the Bath.
CBE abbr. Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
CBI abbr. Confederation of British Industry.
cc abbr. (also c.c.) 1 cubic centimetre(s). 2 copy or copies (to).
CD abbr. 1 compact disc. 2 Civil Defence. 3 Corps Diplomatique.
Cd symb. cadmium.
cd abbr. candela.
CD-ROM abbr. compact disc read-only memory (for the retrieval of text or data on a VDU screen).
CDT abbr. craft, design, and technology.
CD-video n. (pl. -s) 1 system of simultaneously reproducing high-quality sound and video pictures from a compact disc. 2 such a compact disc.
Ce symb. cerium.
cease formal -v. (-sing) stop; bring or come to an end. -n. (in without cease) unending. [Latin cesso]
cease-fire n. 1 period of truce. 2 order to stop firing.
ceaseless adj. without end. ceaselessly adv.
cecum n. (Brit. caecum) (pl. -ca) blind-ended pouch at the junction of the small and large intestines. [Latin caecus blind]
cedar n. 1 spreading evergreen conifer. 2 its hard fragrant wood. [Greek kedros]
cede v. (-ding) formal give up one's rights to or possession of. [Latin cedo cess- yield]
cedilla n. 1 mark written under c, esp. in French, to show it is sibilant (as in façade). 2 similar mark under s in Turkish etc. [Spanish diminutive of zeda Z]
Ceefax n. propr. teletext service provided by the BBC. [representing a pronunciation of seeing + facsimile]
ceilidh n. informal gathering for music, dancing, etc. [Gaelic]
ceiling n. 1 upper interior surface of a room or other compartment. 2 upper limit. 3 maximum altitude a given aircraft can reach. [origin uncertain]
celandine n. yellow-flowered plant. [Greek khelidon a swallow]
celebrant n. person who performs a rite, esp. the priest at the Eucharist.
celebrate v. (-ting) 1 mark with or engage in festivities. 2 perform (a rite or ceremony). 3 praise publicly. celebration n. celebrator n. celebratory adj. [Latin celeber renowned]
celebrity n. (pl. -ies) 1 well-known person. 2 fame. [Latin: related to *celebrate]
celeriac n. variety of celery. [from *celery]
celerity n. archaic or literary swiftness. [Latin celer swift]
celery n. plant with crisp long whitish leaf-stalks used as a vegetable. [Greek selinon parsley]
celesta n. small keyboard instrument with steel plates struck to give a bell-like sound. [French: related to *celestial]
celestial adj. 1 of the sky or heavenly bodies. 2 heavenly; divinely good; sublime. [Latin caelum sky]
celestial equator n. the great circle of the sky in the plane perpendicular to the earth's axis.
celestial sphere n. imaginary sphere, of any radius, of which the observer is the centre and in which celestial bodies are represented as lying.
celibate -adj. 1 unmarried or committed to sexual abstention, esp. for religious reasons. 2 having no sexual relations. -n. celibate person. celibacy n. [Latin caelebs unmarried]
cell n. 1 small room, esp. in a prison or monastery. 2 small compartment, e.g. in a honeycomb. 3 small, active, esp. subversive, political group. 4 a smallest structural and functional unit of living matter, consisting of cytoplasm and a nucleus enclosed in a membrane. b enclosed cavity in an organism etc. 5 vessel containing electrodes for current-generation or electrolysis. [Latin cella]
cellar -n. 1 storage room below ground level in a house. 2 stock of wine in a cellar. -v. store in a cellar. [Latin cellarium: related to *cell]
cello n. (pl. -s) bass instrument of the violin family, held between the legs of the seated player. cellist n. [abbreviation of *violoncello]
Cellophane n. propr. thin transparent viscose wrapping material. [from *cellulose: cf. *diaphanous]
cellphone n. small portable radio-telephone.
cellular adj. consisting of cells, of open texture; porous. cellularity n. [French: related to *cell]
cellular radio n. system of mobile radio-telephone transmission with an area divided into 'cells', each served by a small transmitter.
cellulite n. lumpy fat, esp. on the hips and thighs of women. [French: related to *cell]
celluloid n. 1 plastic made from camphor and cellulose nitrate. 2 cinema film.
cellulose n. 1 carbohydrate forming plant-cell walls, used in textile fibres. 2 (in general use) paint or lacquer consisting of esp. cellulose acetate or nitrate in solution. [Latin: related to *cell]
Celsius adj. of a scale of temperature on which water freezes at 0° and boils at 100°. [name of an astronomer]
Usage See note at centigrade.
Celt n. (also Kelt) member of an ethnic group, including the inhabitants of Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Cornwall, and Brittany. [Latin from Greek]
Celtic -adj. of the Celts. -n. group of Celtic languages, including Gaelic and Irish, Welsh, Cornish, and Breton.
cement -n. 1 powdery substance of calcined lime and clay, mixed with water to form mortar or used in concrete. 2 similar substance. 3 uniting factor or principle. 4 substance used in filling teeth, doing hip replacements, etc. -v. 1 a unite with or as with cement. b establish or strengthen (a friendship etc.). 2 apply cement to. 3 line or cover with cement. cementation n. [Latin caedo cut]
cemetery n. (pl. -ies) burial ground, esp. one not in a churchyard. [Greek koimao put to sleep]
cenobite n. (Brit. coenobite) member of a monastica community. [Greek koinos bios common life]
cenotaph n. tomblike monument to a person whose body is elsewhere. [Greek kenos empty, taphos tomb]
Cenozoic (also Cainozoic, Caenozoic) -adj. of the most recent geological era, marked by the evolution and development of mammals etc. -n. this era. [Greek kainos new, zoion animal]
censer n. vessel for burning incense. [Anglo-French: related to *incense1]
censor -n. official authorized to suppress or expurgate books, films, news, etc., on grounds of obscenity, threat to security, etc. -v. 1 act as a censor of. 2 make deletions or changes in. censorial adj. censorship n. [Latin censeo assess]
Usage As a verb, censor is often confused with censure.
censorious adj. severely critical. censoriously adv.
censure -v. (-ring) criticize harshly; reprove. -n. hostile criticism; disapproval. [Latin: related to *censor]
Usage As a verb, censure is often confused with censor.
census n. (pl. -suses) official count of population etc. [Latin: related to *censor]
cent n. 1 a one-hundredth of a dollar or other decimal currency unit. b coin of this value. 2 colloq. very small amount. [Latin centum 100]
centaur n. creature in Greek mythology with the upper half of a man and the lower half of a horse. [Latin from Greek]
centenarian -n. person a hundred or more years old. -adj. a hundred or more years old.
centenary -n. (pl. -ies) 1 hundredth anniversary. 2 celebration of this. -adj. 1 of a centenary. 2 occurring every hundred years. [Latin centeni 100 each]
centennial -adj. 1 lasting for a hundred years. 2 occurring every hundred years. -n. US = *centenary n. [Latin centum 100: cf. *biennial]
center (Brit. centre) -n. 1 middle point. 2 pivot or axis of rotation. 3 a place or buildings forming a central point or a main area for an activity (shopping centre; town centre). b (with a preceding word) equipment for a number of connected functions (music centre). 4 point of concentration or dispersion; nucleus, source. 5 political party or group holding moderate opinions. 6 filling in chocolate etc. 7 Sport a middle player in a line in some field games. b kick or hit from the side to the centre of a pitch. 8 (attrib.) of or at the centre. -v. (-ring) 1 (foll. by in, on, round) have as its main centre. 2 place in the centre. 3 (foll. by in etc.) concentrate. [Greek kentron sharp point]
centerboard n. (Brit. centreboard) board lowered through a boat's keel to prevent leeway.
centerfold n. (Brit. centrefold) centre spread of a magazine etc., esp. with nude photographs.
centesimal adj. reckoning or reckoned by hundredths. [Latin centum 100]
centi- comb. form 1 one-hundredth. 2 hundred. [Latin centum 100]
centigrade adj. 1 = *Celsius. 2 having a scale of a hundred degrees. [Latin gradus step]
Usage In sense 1, Celsius is usually preferred in technical contexts.
centigram n. (also centigramme) metric unit of mass, equal to 0.01 gram.
centiliter n. (Brit. centilitre) 0.01 litre.
centilitre n. (US centiliter) 0.01 litre.
centime n. 1 one-hundredth of a franc. 2 coin of this value. [Latin centum 100]
centimeter n. (Brit. centimetre) 0.01 metre.
centimetre n. (US centimeter) 0.01 metre.
centipede n. arthropod with a segmented wormlike body and many legs. [Latin pes ped- foot]
central adj. 1 of, at, or forming the centre. 2 from the centre. 3 chief, essential, most important. centrality n. centrally adv.
central bank n. national bank issuing currency etc.
central heating n. method of heating a building by pipes, radiators, etc., fed from a central source.
centralism n. system that centralizes (esp. administration). centralist n.
centralize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 concentrate (esp. administration) at a single centre. 2 subject (a State) to this system. centralization n.
central nervous system n. brain and spinal cord.
central processor n. (also central processing unit) principal operating part of a computer.
centre (US center) -n. 1 middle point. 2 pivot or axis of rotation. 3 a place or buildings forming a central point or a main area for an activity (shopping centre; town centre). b (with a preceding word) equipment for a number of connected functions (music centre). 4 point of concentration or dispersion; nucleus, source. 5 political party or group holding moderate opinions. 6 filling in chocolate etc. 7 Sport a middle player in a line in some field games. b kick or hit from the side to the centre of a pitch. 8 (attrib.) of or at the centre. -v. (-ring) 1 (foll. by in, on, round) have as its main centre. 2 place in the centre. 3 (foll. by in etc.) concentrate. [Greek kentron sharp point]
Usage The use of the verb in sense 1 with round is common and used by good writers, but is still considered incorrect by some people.
centre back n. Sport middle player or position in a half-back line.
centreboard n. (US centerboard) board lowered through a boat's keel to prevent leeway.
centrefold n. (US centerfold) centre spread of a magazine etc., esp. with nude photographs.
centre forward n. Sport middle player or position in a forward line.
centre half n. = *centre back.
centre of gravity n. (also centre of mass) point at which the weight of a body may be considered to act.
centre-piece n. 1 ornament for the middle of a table. 2 principal item.
centre spread n. two facing middle pages of a newspaper etc.
centric adj. 1 at or near the centre. 2 from a centre. centrical adj. centrically adv.
centrifugal adj. moving or tending to move from a centre. centrifugally adv. [from *centre, Latin fugio flee]
centrifugal force n. apparent force that acts outwards on a body moving about a centre.
centrifuge n. rapidly rotating machine designed to separate liquids from solids etc.
centripetal adj. moving or tending to move towards a centre. centripetally adv. [Latin peto seek]
centripetal force n. force acting on a body causing it to move towards a centre.
centrist n. Polit. often derog. person holding moderate views. centrism n.
centurion n. commander of a century in the ancient Roman army. [Latin: related to *century]
century n. (pl. -ies) 1 a 100 years. b any century reckoned from the birth of Christ (twentieth century = 1901-2000; fifth century BC = 500-401 BC). 2 score etc. of 100 esp. by one batsman in cricket. 3 company in the ancient Roman army, orig. of 100 men. [Latin centuria: related to *cent]
Usage Strictly speaking, since the first century ran from the year 1 to 100, the first year of a given century should be that ending in 01. However, in popular use this has been moved back a year, and so the twenty-first century will commonly be regarded as running from 2000-2099.
cephalic adj. of or in the head. [Greek kephale head]
cephalopod n. mollusc with a distinct tentacled head, e.g. the octopus. [from *cephalic, Greek pous pod- foot]
ceramic -adj. 1 made of (esp.) baked clay. 2 of ceramics. -n. ceramic article or product. [Greek keramos pottery]
ceramics n.pl. 1 ceramic products collectively. 2 (usu. treated as sing.) art of making ceramic articles.
cereal -n. 1 a grain used for food. b wheat, maize, rye, etc. producing this. 2 breakfast food made from a cereal. -adj. of edible grain. [Latin Ceres goddess of agriculture]
cerebellum n. (pl. -s or -bella) part of the brain at the back of the skull. [Latin diminutive of *cerebrum]
cerebral adj. 1 of the brain. 2 intellectual; unemotional. [related to *cerebrum]
cerebral palsy n. paralysis resulting from brain damage before or at birth, involving spasm of the muscles and involuntary movements.
cerebration n. working of the brain.
cerebrospinal adj. of the brain and spine.
cerebrum n. (pl. -bra) principal part of the brain in vertebrates, at the front of the skull. [Latin]
ceremonial -adj. of or with ceremony; formal. -n. system of rites or ceremonies. ceremonially adv.
ceremonious adj. fond of or characterized by ceremony; formal. ceremoniously adv.
ceremony n. (pl. -ies) 1 formal procedure, esp. at a public event or anniversary. 2 formalities, esp. ritualistic. 3 excessively polite behaviour. stand on ceremony insist on formality. [Latin caerimonia worship]
cerise n. light clear red. [French: related to *cherry]
cerium n. silvery metallic element of the lanthanide series. [Ceres, name of an asteroid]
CERN abbr. European Organization for Nuclear Research. [French Conseil Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire, former title]
cert n. (esp. dead cert) slang a certainty. [abbreviation]
cert. abbr. 1 certificate. 2 certified.
certain -adj. 1 a confident, convinced. b indisputable (it is certain that he is guilty). 2 (often foll. by to + infin.) sure; destined (it is certain to rain; certain to win). 3 unerring, reliable. 4 that need not be specified or may not be known to the reader or hearer (of a certain age; a certain John Smith). 5 some but not much (a certain reluctance). -pron. (as pl.) some but not all (certain of them knew). for certain without doubt. [Latin certus]
certainly adv. 1 undoubtedly. 2 (in answer) yes; by all means.
certainty n. (pl. -ies) 1 a undoubted fact. b indubitable prospect. 2 absolute conviction. 3 reliable thing or person.
Cert. Ed. abbr. Certificate in Education.
certifiable adj. 1 able or needing to be certified. 2 colloq. insane.
certificate -n. formal document attesting a fact, esp. birth, marriage, or death, a medical condition, or a qualification. -v. (-ting) (esp. as certificated adj.) provide with, license, or attest by a certificate. certification n. [Latin: related to *certify]
Certificate of Secondary Education n. hist. secondary-school leaving examination in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Usage This examination was replaced in 1988 by the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE).
certified cheque n. cheque guaranteed by a bank.
certify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 attest; attest to, esp. formally. 2 declare by certificate. 3 officially declare insane. [Latin certus]
certitude n. feeling of certainty. [Latin: related to *certain]
cerulean adj. & n. literary deep sky-blue. [Latin caeruleus]
cervical adj. of the neck or the cervix (cervical vertebrae). [related to *cervix]
cervical screening n. mass routine examination for cervical cancer.
cervical smear n. specimen from the neck of the womb for examination.
cervix n. (pl. cervices) 1 necklike structure, esp. the neck of the womb. 2 the neck. [Latin]
Cesarean (Brit. Caesarean) -adj. (of birth) effected by Caesarean section. -n. Caesarean section. [from *Caesar: Julius Caesar was supposedly born this way]
cesium n. (Brit. caesium) soft silver-white element. [Latin caesius blue-grey]
cessation n. ceasing or pause. [Latin: related to *cease]
cession n. 1 ceding. 2 territory etc. ceded. [Latin: related to *cede]
cesspit n. (also cesspool) covered pit for the temporary storage of liquid waste or sewage. [origin uncertain]
cetacean -n. marine mammal, e.g. the whale. -adj. of cetaceans. [Greek ketos whale]
cetane n. liquid hydrocarbon used in standardizing ratings of diesel fuel. [from *spermaceti]
Cf symb. californium.
cf. abbr. compare. [Latin confer]
CFC abbr. chlorofluorocarbon, a usu. gaseous compound of carbon, hydrogen, chlorine, and fluorine, used in refrigerants, aerosol propellants, etc., and thought to harm the ozone layer.
CFE abbr. College of Further Education.
cg abbr. centigram(s).
CH abbr. Companion of Honour.
Chablis n. (pl. same) very dry white wine from Chablis in E. France.
cha-cha n. (also cha-cha-cha) 1 Latin-American dance. 2 music for this. [American Spanish]
chaconne n. 1 musical variations over a ground bass. 2 dance performed to this. [French from Spanish]
chafe -v. (-fing) 1 make or become sore or damaged by rubbing. 2 make or become annoyed; fret. 3 rub (esp. the skin to restore warmth or sensation). -n. sore caused by rubbing. [Latin calefacio make warm]
chaff -n. 1 separated husks of corn etc. 2 chopped hay or straw. 3 light-hearted teasing. 4 worthless things. -v. tease, banter. [Old English]
chaffinch n. a common European finch. [Old English: related to *chaff, *finch]
chafing-dish n. vessel in which food is cooked or kept warm at table.
chagrin -n. acute annoyance or disappointment. -v. affect with chagrin. [French]
chain -n. 1 a connected flexible series of esp. metal links. b thing resembling this. 2 (in pl.) fetters; restraining force. 3 sequence, series, or set. 4 group of associated hotels, shops, etc. 5 badge of office in the form of a chain worn round the neck. 6 unit of length (66 ft). -v. (often foll. by up) secure or confine with a chain. [Latin catena]
chain-gang n. hist. team of convicts chained together to work out of doors.
chain-mail n. armour made of interlaced rings.
chain reaction n. 1 chemical or nuclear reaction forming products which initiate further reactions. 2 series of events, each caused by the previous one.
chain-saw n. motor-driven saw with teeth on an endless chain.
chain-smoke v. smoke continually, esp. by lighting the next cigarette etc. from the previous one. chain-smoker n.
chain store n. one of a series of similar shops owned by one firm.
chair -n. 1 seat for one person usu. with a back. 2 professorship. 3 a chairperson. b seat or office of a chairperson. 4 US = *electric chair. -v. 1 preside over (a meeting). 2 carry (a person) aloft in triumph. take the chair preside over a meeting. [Greek kathedra]
chair-lift n. series of chairs on a looped cable, for carrying passengers up and down a mountain etc.
chairman n. (fem. also chairwoman) 1 person chosen to preside over a meeting. 2 permanent president of a committee, board of directors, etc.
chairperson n. chairman or chairwoman.
chaise n. esp. hist. horse-drawn usu. open carriage for one or two persons. [French]
chaise longue n. (pl. chaise longues or chaises longues pronunc. same) sofa with only one arm rest. [French, = long chair]
chalcedony n. (pl. -ies) type of quartz with many varieties, e.g. onyx. [Latin from Greek]
chalet n. 1 Swiss mountain hut or cottage with overhanging eaves. 2 house in a similar style. 3 small cabin in a holiday camp etc. [Swiss French]
chalice n. 1 goblet. 2 Eucharistic cup. [Latin *calix]
chalk -n. 1 white soft limestone. 2 a similar substance, sometimes coloured, for writing or drawing. b piece of this. -v. 1 rub, mark, draw, or write with chalk. 2 (foll. by up) a write or record with chalk. b register or gain (success etc.). by a long chalk by far. chalky adj. (-ier, -iest). chalkiness n. [Latin *calx]
challenge -n. 1 summons to take part in a contest etc. or to prove or justify something. 2 demanding or difficult task. 3 objection made to a jury member. 4 call to respond. -v. (-ging) 1 issue a challenge to. 2 dispute, deny. 3 (as challenging adj.) stimulatingly difficult. 4 object to (a jury member, evidence, etc.). challenger n. [Latin calumnia calumny]
chalybeate adj. (of water etc.) impregnated with iron salts. [Latin chalybs steel, from Greek]
chamber n. 1 a hall used by a legislative or judicial body. b body that meets in it, esp. any of the houses of a parliament. 2 (in pl.) a rooms used by a barrister or barristers, esp. in Inns of Court. b judge's room for hearing cases not needing to be taken in court. 3 archaic room, esp. a bedroom. 4 Mus. (attrib.) of or for a small group of instruments. 5 cavity or compartment in the body, machinery, etc. (esp. the part of a gun-bore that contains the charge). [Greek kamara vault]
chamberlain n. 1 officer managing a royal or noble household. 2 treasurer of a corporation etc. [Germanic: related to *chamber]
chambermaid n. woman who cleans hotel bedrooms.
Chamber of Commerce n. association to promote local commercial interests.
chamber-pot n. receptacle for urine etc., used in the bedroom.
chameleon n. 1 small lizard able to change colour for camouflage. 2 variable or inconstant person. [Greek, = ground-lion]
chamfer -v. bevel symmetrically (a right-angled edge or corner). -n. bevelled surface at an edge or corner. [French chant edge, fraint broken]
chamois n. (pl. same) 1 agile European and Asian mountain antelope. 2 (in full chamois leather) a soft leather from sheep, goats, deer, etc. b piece of this. [French]
chamomile var. of *camomile.
champ1 -v. munch or chew noisily. -n. chewing noise. champ at the bit be restlessly impatient. [imitative]
champ2 n. slang champion. [abbreviation]
champagne n. 1 a white sparkling wine from Champagne. b similar wine from elsewhere. 2 pale cream colour. [Champagne, former province in E. France]
Usage The use of this word in sense 1b is, strictly speaking, incorrect.
champers n. slang champagne.
champion -n. 1 (often attrib.) person or thing that has defeated or surpassed all rivals. 2 person who fights or argues for a cause or another person. -v. support the cause of, defend. -adj. colloq. splendid. -adv. colloq. splendidly. [medieval Latin campio fighter]
championship n. 1 (often in pl.) contest to decide the champion in a sport etc. 2 position of champion.
chance -n. 1 possibility. 2 (often in pl.) probability. 3 unplanned occurrence. 4 opportunity. 5 fortune; luck. 6 (often Chance) course of events regarded as a power; fate. -attrib. adj. fortuitous, accidental. -v. (-cing) 1 colloq. risk. 2 happen (I chanced to find it). by any chance perhaps. by chance fortuitously. chance one's arm try though unlikely to succeed. chance on (or upon) happen to find, meet, etc. game of chance one decided by luck, not skill. on the off chance just in case (the unlikely occurs). stand a chance have a prospect of success etc. take a chance (or chances) risk failure; behave riskily. take a (or one's) chance on (or with) risk the consequences of. [Latin cado fall]
chancel n. part of a church near the altar. [Latin cancelli grating]
chancellery n. (pl. -ies) 1 chancellor's department, staff, or residence. 2 US office attached to an embassy or consulate.
chancellor n. 1 State or legal official. 2 head of government in some European countries. 3 non-resident honorary head of a university. [Latin cancellarius secretary]
Chancellor of the Exchequer n. UK finance minister.
chancery n. (pl. -ies) 1 (Chancery) Lord Chancellor's division of the High Court of Justice. 2 records office. 3 chancellery. [contraction of *chancellery]
chancy adj. (-ier, -iest) uncertain; risky. chancily adv.
chandelier n. ornamental branched hanging support for lighting. [French: related to *candle]
chandler n. dealer in candles, oil, soap, paint, etc. [French: related to *candle]
change -n. 1 a making or becoming different. b alteration or modification. 2 a money exchanged for money in larger units or a different currency. b money returned as the balance of that given in payment. 3 new experience; variety (need a change). 4 substitution of one thing for another (change of scene). 5 (in full change of life) colloq. menopause. 6 (usu. in pl.) one of the different orders in which bells can be rung. -v. (-ging) 1 undergo, show, or subject to change; make or become different. 2 a take or use another instead of; go from one to another (change one's socks; changed trains). b (usu. foll. by for) give up or get rid of in exchange (changed the car for a van). 3 give or get money in exchange for. 4 put fresh clothes or coverings on. 5 (often foll. by with) give and receive, exchange. 6 change trains etc. 7 (of the moon) arrive at a fresh phase. change down engage a lower gear. change gear engage a different gear. change hands 1 pass to a different owner. 2 substitute one hand for the other. change one's mind adopt a different opinion or plan. change over change from one system or situation to another. change one's tune 1 voice a different opinion from before. 2 become more respectful. change up engage a higher gear. get no change out of slang 1 get no information or help from. 2 fail to outwit (in business etc.). changeful adj. changeless adj. [Latin cambio barter]
changeable adj. 1 inconstant. 2 that can change or be changed.
changeling n. child believed to be substituted for another.
change of clothes n. second outfit in reserve.
change of heart n. conversion to a different view.
change-over n. change from one system to another.
channel -n. 1 a piece of water wider than a strait, joining esp. two seas. b (the Channel) the English Channel. 2 medium of communication; agency. 3 band of frequencies used in radio and television transmission, esp. by a particular station. 4 course in which anything moves. 5 a hollow bed of water. b navigable part of a waterway. 6 passage for liquid. 7 lengthwise strip on recording tape etc. -v. (-ll-; US -l-) 1 guide, direct. 2 form channel(s) in. [Latin: related to *canal]
chant -n. 1 spoken singsong phrase. 2 a simple tune used for singing unmetrical words, e.g. psalms. b song, esp. monotonous or repetitive. -v. 1 talk or repeat monotonously. 2 sing or intone (a psalm etc.). [Latin canto from cano sing]
chanter n. melody-pipe of bagpipes.
chanticleer n. name given to a domestic cock in stories. [French: related to *chant, *clear]
chantry n. (pl. -ies) 1 endowment for the singing of masses. 2 priests, chapel, etc., so endowed. [French: related to *chant]
chaos n. 1 utter confusion. 2 formless matter supposed to have existed before the creation of the universe. chaotic adj. chaotically adv. [Latin from Greek]
chap1 n. colloq. man, boy, fellow. [abbreviation of *chapman]
chap2 -v. (-pp-) 1 (esp. of the skin) develop cracks or soreness. 2 (of the wind, cold, etc.) cause to chap. -n. (usu. in pl.) crack in the skin etc. [origin uncertain]
chaparral n. US dense tangled brushwood. [Spanish]
chapatti n. (also chapati, chupatty) (pl. chapat(t)is or chupatties) flat thin cake of unleavened bread. [Hindi]
chapel n. 1 a place for private Christian worship in a Cathedral or large church, with its own altar. b this attached to a private house etc. 2 a place of worship for Nonconformists. b chapel service. 3 members or branch of a printers' trade union at a place of work. [medieval Latin cappa cloak: the first chapel was a sanctuary in which St Martin's cloak (cappella) was preserved]
chaperon -n. person, esp. an older woman, ensuring propriety by accompanying a young unmarried woman on social occasions. -v. act as chaperon to. chaperonage n. [French from chape cope: related to *cape1]
chaplain n. member of the clergy attached to a private chapel, institution, ship, regiment, etc. chaplaincy n. (pl. -ies). [Latin: related to *chapel]
chaplet n. 1 garland or circlet for the head. 2 short string of beads; rosary. [Latin: related to *cap]
chapman n. hist. pedlar. [Old English: related to *cheap, *man]
chappie n. colloq. = *chap1.
chapter n. 1 main division of a book. 2 period of time (in a person's life etc.). 3 a canons of a cathedral or members of a religious community. b meeting of these. [Latin diminutive of caput head]
chapter and verse n. exact reference or details.
chapter of accidents n. series of misfortunes.
char1 v. (-rr-) 1 make or become black by burning; scorch. 2 burn to charcoal. [from *charcoal]
char2 colloq. -n. = *charwoman. -v. (-rr-) work as a charwoman. [Old English, = turn]
char3 n. slang tea. [Chinese cha]
char4 n. (pl. same) a kind of small trout. [origin unknown]
charabanc n. hist. early form of motor coach. [French char à bancs seated carriage]
character n. 1 collective qualities or characteristics that distinguish a person or thing. 2 a moral strength. b reputation, esp. good reputation. 3 a person in a novel, play, etc. b part played by an actor; role. 4 colloq. person, esp. an eccentric one. 5 printed or written letter, symbol, etc. 6 written description of a person's qualities. 7 characteristic (esp. of a biological species). in (or out of) character consistent (or inconsistent) with a person's character. characterless adj. [Greek kharakter]
characteristic -adj. typical, distinctive. -n. characteristic feature or quality. characteristically adv.
characterize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 a describe the character of. b (foll. by as) describe as. 2 be characteristic of. 3 impart character to. characterization n.
charade n. 1 (usu. in pl., treated as sing.) game of guessing a word from acted clues. 2 absurd pretence. [Provençal charra chatter]
charcoal n. 1 a form of carbon consisting of black residue from partially burnt wood etc. b piece of this for drawing. c a drawing in charcoal. 2 (in full charcoal grey) dark grey. [origin unknown]
charge -v. (-ging) 1 a ask (an amount) as a price. b ask (a person) for an amount as a price. 2 a (foll. by to, up to) debit the cost of to (a person or account). b debit (a person or account). 3 a (often foll. by with) accuse (of an offence). b (foll. by that + clause) make an accusation that. 4 (foll. by to + infin.) instruct or urge. 5 (foll. by with) entrust with. 6 make a rushing attack (on). 7 (often foll. by up) a give an electric charge to. b store energy in (a battery). 8 (often foll. by with) load or fill (a vessel, gun, etc.) to the full or proper extent. 9 (usu. as charged adj.) a (foll. by with) saturated with. b (usu. foll. by with) pervaded (with strong feelings etc.). -n. 1 a price asked for services or goods. b financial liability or commitment. 2 accusation. 3 a task, duty, commission. b care, custody. c person or thing entrusted. 4 a impetuous rush or attack, esp. in battle. b signal for this. 5 appropriate amount of material to be put into a receptacle, mechanism, etc. at one time, esp. of explosive for a gun. 6 a property of matter causing electrical phenomena. b quantity of this carried by the body. c energy stored chemically for conversion into electricity. 7 exhortation; directions, orders. 8 heraldic device or bearing. in charge having command. take charge (often foll. by of) assume control. chargeable adj. [Latin carrus *car]
charge-capping n. imposition of an upper limit on the community charge leviable by a local authority.
charge card n. = *credit card.
chargé d'affaires n. (pl. chargés pronunc. same) 1 ambassador's deputy. 2 envoy to a minor country. [French]
charger n. 1 cavalry horse. 2 apparatus for charging a battery.
chariot n. hist. two-wheeled vehicle drawn by horses, used in ancient warfare and racing. [French: related to *car]
charioteer n. chariot-driver.
charisma n. 1 power to inspire or attract others; exceptional charm. 2 divinely conferred power or talent. charismatic adj. [Greek kharis grace]
charitable adj. 1 generous in giving to those in need. 2 of or relating to a charity or charities. 3 generous in judging others. charitably adv.
charity n. (pl. -ies) 1 giving voluntarily to those in need. 2 organization set up to help those in need or for the common good. 3 a kindness, benevolence. b tolerance in judging others. c love of fellow men. [Latin caritas from carus dear]
charlady n. = *charwoman.
charlatan n. person falsely claiming knowledge or skill. charlatanism n. [Italian, = babbler]
charleston n. (also Charleston) lively dance of the 1920s with side-kicks from the knee. [Charleston in S. Carolina]
charlotte n. pudding of stewed fruit covered with bread etc. [French]
charm -n. 1 power or quality of delighting, arousing admiration, or influencing; fascination, attractiveness. 2 trinket on a bracelet etc. 3 object, act, or word(s) supposedly having magic power. -v. 1 delight, captivate. 2 influence or protect as if by magic (a charmed life). 3 obtain or gain by charm (charmed his way into the BBC). charmer n. [Latin carmen song]
charming adj. delightful. charmingly adv.
charnel-house n. repository of corpses or bones. [Latin: related to *carnal]
chart -n. 1 geographical map or plan, esp. for navigation. 2 sheet of information in the form of a table, graph, or diagram. 3 (usu. in pl.) colloq. listing of the currently best-selling pop records. -v. make a chart of, map. [Latin charta: related to *card1]
charter -n. 1 a document granting rights, issued esp. by a sovereign or legislature. b written constitution or description of an organization's functions etc. 2 contract to hire an aircraft, ship, etc., for a special purpose. -v. 1 grant a charter to. 2 hire (an aircraft, ship, etc.). [Latin chartula: related to *chart]
chartered attrib. adj. (of an accountant, engineer, librarian, etc.) qualified member of a professional body that has a royal charter.
charter flight n. flight by chartered aircraft.
Chartism n. hist. UK Parliamentary reform movement of 1837-48. Chartist n. [from *charter: name taken from 'People's Charter']
chartreuse n. pale green or yellow brandy-based liqueur. [Chartreuse, monastery in S. France]
charwoman n. woman employed as a cleaner in a house.
chary adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 cautious, wary. 2 sparing; ungenerous. [Old English: related to *care]
Charybdis see *Scylla and Charybdis.
chase1 -v. (-sing) 1 run after; pursue. 2 (foll. by from, out of, to, etc.) force to run away or flee. 3 a (foll. by after) hurry in pursuit of. b (foll. by round etc.) colloq. act or move about hurriedly. 4 (usu. foll. by up) colloq. pursue (a thing overdue). 5 colloq. a try to attain. b court persistently. -n. 1 pursuit. 2 unenclosed hunting-land. 3 (prec. by the) hunting, esp. as a sport. [Latin capto: related to *catch]
chase2 v. (-sing) emboss or engrave (metal). [French: related to *case2]
chaser n. 1 horse for steeplechasing. 2 colloq. drink taken after another of a different kind.
chasm n. 1 deep cleft or opening in the earth, rock, etc. 2 wide difference of feeling, interests, etc. [Latin from Greek]
chassis n. (pl. same) 1 base-frame of a motor vehicle, carriage, etc. 2 frame to carry radio etc. components. [Latin: related to *case2]
chaste adj. 1 abstaining from extramarital, or from all, sexual intercourse. 2 pure, virtuous. 3 simple, unadorned. chastely adv. chasteness n. [Latin castus]
chasten v. 1 (esp. as chastening, chastened adjs.) subdue, restrain. 2 discipline, punish.
chastise v. (-sing) 1 rebuke severely. 2 punish, esp. by beating. chastisement n.
chastity n. being chaste.
chasuble n. loose sleeveless usu. ornate outer vestment worn by a celebrant at Mass or the Eucharist. [Latin casubla]
chat -v. (-tt-) talk in a light familiar way. -n. 1 pleasant informal talk. 2 any of various songbirds. chat up colloq. chat to, esp. flirtatiously or with an ulterior motive. [shortening of *chatter]
château n. (pl. -x) large French country house or castle. [French: related to *castle]
chatelaine n. 1 mistress of a large house. 2 hist. set of short chains attached to a woman's belt, for carrying keys etc. [medieval Latin castellanus: related to *castle]
chatline n. telephone service which sets up a conference call among youngsters.
chat show n. television or radio broadcast in which celebrities are interviewed informally.
chattel n. (usu. in pl.) movable possession. [French: related to *cattle]
chatter -v. 1 talk quickly, incessantly, trivially, or indiscreetly. 2 (of a bird, monkey, etc.) emit short quick sounds. 3 (of teeth) click repeatedly together. -n. chattering talk or sounds. [imitative]
chatterbox n. talkative person.
chatty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 fond of chatting. 2 resembling chat. chattily adv. chattiness n.
chauffeur -n. (fem. chauffeuse) person employed to drive a car. -v. drive (a car or person) as a chauffeur. [French, = stoker]
chauvinism n. 1 exaggerated or aggressive patriotism. 2 excessive or prejudiced support or loyalty for one's cause or group. [Chauvin, name of a character in a French play 1831]
chauvinist n. 1 person exhibiting chauvinism. 2 (in full male chauvinist) man who shows prejudice against women. chauvinistic adj. chauvinistically adv.
cheap -adj. 1 low in price; worth more than its cost. 2 charging low prices; offering good value. 3 of poor quality; inferior. 4 costing little effort and hence of little worth. -adv. cheaply. on the cheap cheaply. cheaply adv. cheapness n. [Old English, = price, bargain]
cheapen v. make or become cheap; depreciate, degrade.
cheapjack -n. seller of inferior goods at low prices. -adj. inferior, shoddy.
cheapskate n. esp. US colloq. stingy person.
cheat -v. 1 a (often foll. by into, out of) deceive or trick. b (foll. by of) deprive of. 2 gain an unfair advantage by deception or breaking rules. -n. 1 person who cheats. 2 trick, deception. cheat on colloq. be sexually unfaithful to. [from *escheat]
check -v. 1 a examine the accuracy or quality of. b make sure, verify. 2 a stop or slow the motion of; curb. b colloq. rebuke. 3 Chess directly threaten (the opposing king). 4 US agree on comparison. 5 US mark with a tick etc. 6 US deposit (luggage etc.). -n. 1 means or act of testing or ensuring accuracy, quality, etc. 2 a stopping or slowing of motion. b rebuff or rebuke. c person or thing that restrains. 3 a pattern of small squares. b fabric so patterned. c (attrib.) so patterned. 4 (also as int.) Chess exposure of a king to direct attack. 5 US restaurant bill. 6 US = *cheque. 7 esp. US token of identification for left luggage etc. 8 US Cards counter used in games. 9 temporary loss of the scent in hunting. check in 1 arrive or register at a hotel, airport, etc. 2 record the arrival of. check into register one's arrival at (a hotel etc.). check off mark on a list etc. as having been examined. check on examine, verify, keep watch on. check out 1 (often foll. by of) leave a hotel etc. with due formalities. 2 esp. US investigate. check up make sure, verify. check up on = check on. [Persian, = king]
checked adj. having a check pattern.
checker1 n. person etc. that examines, esp. in a factory etc.
checker2 n. 1 var. of *chequer. 2 US a (in pl., usu. treated as sing.) draughts. b piece used in this game.
check-in n. act or place of checking in.
checkmate -n. (also as int.) Chess check from which a king cannot escape. -v. (-ting) 1 Chess put into checkmate. 2 frustrate. [French: related to *check, Persian mat is dead]
checkout n. 1 act of checking out. 2 pay-desk in a supermarket etc.
checkpoint n. place, esp. a barrier or entrance, where documents, vehicles, etc., are inspected.
check-up n. thorough (esp. medical) examination.
Cheddar n. a kind of firm smooth cheese. [Cheddar in Somerset]
cheek -n. 1 a side of the face below the eye. b side-wall of the mouth. 2 a impertinence; cool confidence. b impertinent speech. 3 slang buttock. -v. be impertinent to. cheek by jowl close together; intimate. [Old English]
cheek-bone n. bone below the eye.
cheeky adj. (-ier, -iest) impertinent. cheekily adv. cheekiness n.
cheep -n. weak shrill cry of a young bird. -v. make such a cry. [imitative]
cheer -n. 1 shout of encouragement or applause. 2 mood, disposition (full of good cheer). 3 (in pl.; as int.) colloq. a expressing good wishes on parting or before drinking. b expressing gratitude. -v. 1 a applaud with shouts. b (usu. foll. by on) urge with shouts. 2 shout for joy. 3 gladden; comfort. cheer up make or become less depressed. [Latin cara face, from Greek]
cheerful adj. 1 in good spirits, noticeably happy. 2 bright, pleasant. cheerfully adv. cheerfulness n.
cheerio int. colloq. expressing good wishes on parting.
cheer-leader n. person who leads cheers of applause etc.
cheerless adj. gloomy, dreary.
cheery adj. (-ier, -iest) cheerful. cheerily adv. cheeriness n.
cheese n. 1 a food made from curds of milk. b cake of this with rind. 2 conserve with the consistency of soft cheese. cheesy adj. [Latin caseus]
cheeseburger n. hamburger with cheese in or on it.
cheesecake n. 1 tart filled with sweetened curds etc. 2 slang portrayal of women in a sexually stimulating manner.
cheesecloth n. thin loosely-woven cloth.
cheesed adj. slang (often foll. by off) bored, fed up. [origin unknown]
cheese-paring adj. stingy.
cheese plant n. climbing plant with holes in its leaves.
cheetah n. swift-running spotted leopard-like feline. [Hindi]
chef n. (usu. male) cook, esp. the chief cook in a restaurant. [French]
Chelsea bun n. currant bun in the form of a flat spiral. [Chelsea in London]
Chelsea pensioner n. inmate of the Chelsea Royal Hospital for old or disabled soldiers.
chemical -adj. of, made by, or employing chemistry or chemicals. -n. substance obtained or used in chemistry. chemically adv. [French or medieval Latin: related to *alchemy]
chemical engineering n. creation and operation of industrial chemical plants.
chemical warfare n. warfare using poison gas and other chemicals.
chemise n. hist. woman's loose-fitting undergarment or dress. [Latin camisia shirt]
chemist n. 1 dealer in medicinal drugs etc. 2 expert in chemistry. [French: related to *alchemy]
chemistry n. (pl. -ies) 1 branch of science dealing with the elements and the compounds they form and the reactions they undergo. 2 chemical composition and properties of a substance. 3 colloq. sexual attraction.
chemotherapy n. treatment of disease, esp. cancer, by chemical substances.
chenille n. 1 tufty velvety cord or yarn. 2 fabric of this. [French, = caterpillar, from Latin canicula little dog]
cheque n. 1 written order to a bank to pay the stated sum from the drawer's account. 2 printed form on which this is written. [from *check]
cheque-book n. book of forms for writing cheques.
cheque card n. card issued by a bank to guarantee the honouring of cheques up to a stated amount.
chequer -n. 1 (often in pl.) pattern of squares often alternately coloured. 2 var. of *checker2 2. -v. 1 mark with chequers. 2 variegate; break the uniformity of. 3 (as chequered adj.) with varied fortunes (chequered career). [from *exchequer]
cherish v. 1 protect or tend lovingly. 2 hold dear, cling to (hopes, feelings, etc.). [French cher dear, from Latin carus]
cheroot n. cigar with both ends open. [French from Tamil]
cherry -n. (pl. -ies) 1 a small soft round stone-fruit. b tree bearing this or grown for its ornamental flowers. c its wood. 2 light red colour. -adj. of light red colour. [Greek kerasos]
cherub n. 1 (pl. -im) angelic being of the second order of the celestial hierarchy. 2 a representation of a winged child or its head. b beautiful or innocent child. cherubic adj. [ultimately from Hebrew]
chervil n. herb used for flavouring. [Greek khairephullon]
Cheshire n. a kind of firm crumbly cheese. like a Cheshire cat with a broad fixed grin. [Cheshire in England]
chess n. game for two with 16 men each, played on a chessboard. [French: related to *check]
chessboard n. chequered board of 64 squares on which chess and draughts are played.
chessman n. any of the 32 pieces and pawns with which chess is played.
chest n. 1 large strong box. 2 a part of the body enclosed by the ribs. b front surface of the body from the neck to the bottom of the ribs. 3 small cabinet for medicines etc. get a thing off one's chest colloq. disclose a secret etc. to relieve one's anxiety about it. [Latin cista]
chesterfield n. sofa with arms and back of the same height and curved outwards at the top. [Earl of Chesterfield]
chestnut -n. 1 a glossy hard brown edible nut. b tree bearing it. 2 = *horse chestnut. 3 wood of any chestnut. 4 horse of a reddish-brown colour. 5 colloq. stale joke etc. 6 reddish-brown. -adj. reddish-brown. [Greek kastanea nut]
chest of drawers n. piece of furniture consisting of a set of drawers in a frame.
chesty adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. inclined to or symptomatic of chest disease. chestily adv. chestiness n.
cheval-glass n. tall mirror swung on an upright frame. [Latin caballus horse]
chevalier n. member of certain orders of knighthood, or of the French Legion of Honour etc. [medieval Latin caballarius horseman]
chevron n. V-shaped line or stripe. [Latin caper goat]
chew -v. work (food etc.) between the teeth. -n. 1 act of chewing. 2 chewy sweet. chew on 1 work continuously between the teeth. 2 think about. chew over 1 discuss, talk over. 2 think about. [Old English]
chewing-gum n. flavoured gum for chewing.
chewy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 needing much chewing. 2 suitable for chewing. chewiness n.
chez prep. at the home of. [Latin casa cottage]
chi n. twenty-second letter of the Greek alphabet (C, c). [Greek]
Chianti n. (pl. -s) red wine from the Chianti area in Italy.
chiaroscuro n. 1 treatment of light and shade in drawing and painting. 2 use of contrast in literature etc. [Italian, = clear dark]
chic -adj. (chic-er, chic-est) stylish, elegant. -n. stylishness, elegance. [French]
chicane -n. 1 artificial barrier or obstacle on a motor racecourse. 2 chicanery. -v. (-ning) archaic 1 use chicanery. 2 (usu. foll. by into, out of, etc.) cheat (a person). [French]
chicanery n. (pl. -ies) 1 clever but misleading talk. 2 trickery, deception. [French]
chick n. 1 young bird. 2 slang young woman. [Old English: related to *chicken]
chicken -n. 1 a domestic fowl. b its flesh as food. 2 young bird of a domestic fowl. 3 youthful person (is no chicken). -adj. colloq. cowardly. -v. (foll. by out) colloq. withdraw through cowardice. [Old English]
chicken-feed n. 1 food for poultry. 2 colloq. trivial amount, esp. of money.
chickenpox n. infectious disease, esp. of children, with a rash of small blisters.
chicken-wire n. light wire netting with a hexagonal mesh.
chick-pea n. yellow pea-like seed used as a vegetable. [Latin cicer]
chickweed n. small weed with tiny white flowers.
chicle n. milky juice of a tropical tree, used in chewing-gum. [Spanish from Nahuatl]
chicory n. (pl. -ies) 1 plant with leaves used in salads. 2 its root, roasted and ground and used with or instead of coffee. 3 esp. US = *endive. [Greek kikhorion]
chide v. (past chided or chid; past part. chided or chidden) archaic scold, rebuke. [Old English]
chief -n. 1 a leader or ruler. b head of a tribe, clan, etc. 2 head of a department; highest official. -adj. 1 first in position, importance, influence, etc. 2 prominent, leading. [Latin caput head]
Chief Constable n. head of the police force of a county etc.
chiefly adv. above all; mainly but not exclusively.
Chief of Staff n. senior staff officer of a service or command.
chieftain n. leader of a tribe, clan, etc. chieftaincy n. (pl. -ies). [Latin: related to *chief]
chiffchaff n. small European warbler. [imitative]
chiffon n. light diaphanous fabric of silk, nylon, etc. [French chiffe rag]
chignon n. coil of hair at the back of a woman's head. [French]
chihuahua n. dog of a very small smooth-haired breed. [Chihuahua in Mexico]
chilblain n. painful itching swelling on a hand, foot, etc., caused by exposure to cold. [from *chill, blain inflamed sore, blister]
child n. (pl. children) 1 a young human being below the age of puberty. b unborn or newborn human being. 2 one's son or daughter. 3 (foll. by of) descendant, follower, or product of. 4 childish person. childless adj. [Old English]
child abuse n. maltreatment of a child, esp. by physical violence or sexual molestation.
child benefit n. regular payment by the State to the parents of a child up to a certain age.
childbirth n. giving birth to a child.
child care n. the care of children, esp. by a local authority.
childhood n. state or period of being a child.
childish adj. 1 of, like, or proper to a child. 2 immature, silly. childishly adv. childishness n.
childlike adj. having the good qualities of a child, such as innocence, frankness, etc.
child-minder n. person looking after children for payment.
child's play n. easy task.
chili var. of *chilli.
chill -n. 1 a unpleasant cold sensation; lowered body temperature. b feverish cold. 2 unpleasant coldness (of air, water, etc.). 3 depressing influence. 4 coldness of manner. -v. 1 make or become cold. 2 depress; horrify. 3 preserve (food or drink) by cooling. -adj. literary chilly. [Old English]
chilli n. (also chili) (pl. -es) hot-tasting dried red capsicum pod. [Spanish from Aztec]
chilli con carne n. dish of chilli-flavoured mince and beans.
chilly adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 somewhat cold. 2 sensitive to the cold. 3 unfriendly; unemotional.
Chiltern Hundreds n.pl. Crown manor, whose administration is a nominal office for which an MP applies as a way of resigning from the House of Commons. [Chiltern Hills in S. England]
chime -n. 1 set of attuned bells. 2 sounds made by this. -v. (-ming) 1 (of bells) ring. 2 show (the time) by chiming. 3 (usu. foll. by together, with) be in agreement. chime in 1 interject a remark. 2 join in harmoniously. 3 (foll. by with) agree with. [Old English: related to *cymbal]
chimera n. 1 (in Greek mythology) monster with a lion's head, goat's body, and serpent's tail. 2 bogey. 3 wild or fantastic conception. chimerical adj. [Latin from Greek]
chimney n. (pl. -s) 1 channel conducting smoke etc. up and away from a fire, engine, etc. 2 part of this above a roof. 3 glass tube protecting the flame of a lamp. 4 narrow vertical crack in a rock-face. [Latin caminus oven, from Greek]
chimney-breast n. projecting wall surrounding a chimney.
chimney-pot n. earthenware or metal pipe at the top of a chimney.
chimney-stack n. number of chimneys grouped in one structure.
chimney-sweep n. person who removes soot from inside chimneys.
chimp n. colloq. = *chimpanzee. [abbreviation]
chimpanzee n. small African manlike ape. [French from Kongo]
chin n. front of the lower jaw. keep one's chin up colloq. remain cheerful. take on the chin suffer a severe blow from; endure courageously. [Old English]
china -n. 1 fine white or translucent ceramic ware, porcelain, etc. 2 things made of this. -adj. made of china. [China in Asia]
china clay n. kaolin.
Chinaman n. 1 archaic or derog. (now usu. offens.) native of China. 2 Cricket ball bowled by a left-handed bowler that spins from off to leg.
chinchilla n. 1 a small S. American rodent. b its soft grey fur. 2 breed of cat or rabbit. [Spanish chinche bug]
chine -n. 1 a backbone. b joint of meat containing all or part of this. 2 ridge. -v. (-ning) cut (meat) through the backbone. [Latin spina *spine]
Chinese -adj. of China. -n. 1 Chinese language. 2 (pl. same) a native or national of China. b person of Chinese descent.
Chinese lantern n. 1 collapsible paper lantern. 2 plant with an orange-red papery calyx.
Chinese leaf n. lettuce-like cabbage.
Chink n. slang offens. a Chinese. [abbreviation]
chink1 n. narrow opening; slit. [related to chine narrow ravine]
chink2 -v. (cause to) make a sound like glasses or coins striking together. -n. this sound. [imitative]
chinless adj. colloq. weak or feeble in character.
chinless wonder n. ineffectual esp. upper-class person.
chinoiserie n. 1 imitation of Chinese motifs in painting and in decorating furniture. 2 object(s) in this style. [French]
chintz n. printed multicoloured usu. glazed cotton fabric. [Hindi from Sanskrit]
chintzy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like chintz. 2 gaudy, cheap. 3 characteristic of décor associated with chintz soft furnishings.
chin-wag slang -n. talk or chat. -v. (-gg-) chat.
chip -n. 1 small piece removed by chopping etc. 2 place or mark where a piece has been broken off. 3 a strip of potato, usu. deep-fried. b US potato crisp. 4 counter used in some games to represent money. 5 = *microchip. -v. (-pp-) 1 (often foll. by off, away) cut or break (a piece) from a hard material. 2 (often foll. by at, away at) cut pieces off (a hard material) to alter its shape etc. 3 be apt to break at the edge. 4 (usu. as chipped adj.) make (potatoes) into chips. chip in colloq. 1 interrupt. 2 contribute (money etc.). a chip off the old block child resembling its parent, esp. in character. a chip on one's shoulder colloq. inclination to feel resentful or aggrieved. when the chips are down colloq. when it comes to the point. [Old English]
chipboard n. board made from compressed wood chips.
chipmunk n. striped N. American ground squirrel. [Algonquian]
chipolata n. small thin sausage. [French from Italian]
Chippendale adj. (of furniture) of an elegantly ornate 18th-c. style. [name of a cabinet-maker]
chiro- comb. form hand. [Greek kheir]
chiromancy n. palmistry. [Greek mantis seer]
chiropody n. treatment of the feet and their ailments. chiropodist n. [Greek pous podos foot]
chiropractic n. treatment of disease by manipulation of esp. the spinal column. chiropractor n. [Greek pratto do]
chirp -v. 1 (of small birds, grasshoppers, etc.) utter a short sharp note. 2 speak or utter merrily. -n. chirping sound. [imitative]
chirpy adj. colloq. (-ier, -iest) cheerful, lively. chirpily adv. chirpiness n.
chirrup -v. (-p-) chirp, esp. repeatedly. -n. chirruping sound. [imitative]
chisel -n. hand tool with a squared bevelled blade for shaping wood, stone, or metal. -v. 1 (-ll-; US -l-) cut or shape with a chisel. 2 (as chiselled adj.) (of facial features) clear-cut, fine. 3 slang cheat. [Latin caedo cut]
chit1 n. 1 derog. or joc. young small woman (esp. a chit of a girl). 2 young child. [originally = whelp, cub]
chit2 n. 1 note of requisition, of a sum owed, etc. 2 note or memorandum. [Hindi from Sanskrit]
chit-chat n. colloq. light conversation; gossip. [reduplication of *chat]
chivalrous adj. 1 gallant, honourable. 2 of or showing chivalry. chivalrously adv. [Latin: related to *chevalier]
chivalry n. 1 medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code. 2 honour, courtesy, and readiness to help the weak. chivalric adj.
chive n. small plant with long onion-flavoured leaves. [Latin cepa onion]
chivvy v. (-ies, -ied) urge persistently, nag. [probably from ballad of Chevy Chase]
chloral n. 1 colourless liquid aldehyde used in making DDT. 2 (in full chloral hydrate) Pharm. crystalline solid made from this and used as a sedative. [French: related to *chlorine, *alcohol]
chloride n. 1 compound of chlorine and another element or group. 2 bleaching agent containing this.
chlorinate v. (-ting) impregnate or treat with chlorine. chlorination n.
chlorine n. poisonous gaseous element used for purifying water etc. [Greek khloros green]
chlorofluorocarbon see *CFC.
chloroform -n. colourless volatile liquid formerly used as a general anaesthetic. -v. render unconscious with this. [from *chlorine, *formic acid]
chlorophyll n. green pigment found in most plants. [Greek khloros green, phullon leaf]
choc n. colloq. chocolate. [abbreviation]
choc-ice n. bar of ice-cream covered with chocolate.
chock -n. block or wedge to check the motion of a wheel etc. -v. make fast with chocks. [French]
chock-a-block predic. adj. (often foll. by with) crammed together or full.
chock-full predic. adj. (often foll. by of) crammed full.
chocolate -n. 1 a food preparation in the form of a paste or solid block made from ground cacao seeds and usu. sweetened. b sweet made of or coated with this. c drink containing this. 2 deep brown. -adj. 1 made from chocolate. 2 deep brown. [Aztec chocolatl]
choice -n. 1 a act of choosing. b thing or person chosen. 2 range from which to choose. 3 power or opportunity to choose. -adj. of superior quality. [Germanic: related to *choose]
choir n. 1 regular group of singers, esp. in a church. 2 part of a cathedral or large church between the altar and nave. [Latin: related to *chorus]
choirboy n. (fem. choirgirl) boy singer in a church choir.
choke -v. (-king) 1 stop the breathing of (a person or animal), esp. by constricting the windpipe or (of gas, smoke, etc.) by being unbreathable. 2 suffer a stoppage of breath. 3 make or become speechless from emotion. 4 retard the growth of or kill (esp. plants) by depriving of light etc. 5 (often foll. by back) suppress (feelings) with difficulty. 6 block or clog (a passage, tube, etc.). 7 (as choked adj.) colloq. disgusted, disappointed. -n. 1 valve in a carburettor controlling the intake of air. 2 device for smoothing the variations of an alternating current. choke up block (a channel etc.). [Old English]
choker n. close-fitting necklace.
cholecalciferol n. a vitamin (D3) produced by the action of sunlight on a steroid in the skin. [from *choler, *calciferol]
choler n. 1 hist. one of the four humours, bile. 2 poet. or archaic anger, irascibility. [Greek khole bile]
cholera n. infectious often fatal bacterial disease of the small intestine. [related to *choler]
choleric adj. irascible, angry.
cholesterol n. sterol found in most body tissues, including the blood where high concentrations promote arteriosclerosis. [from *choler, Greek stereos stiff]
chomp v. = *champ1. [imitative]
choose v. (-sing; past chose; past part. chosen) 1 select out of a greater number. 2 (usu. foll. by between, from) take or select one or another. 3 (usu. foll. by to + infin.) decide, be determined. 4 select as (was chosen leader). nothing (or little) to choose between them they are very similar. [Old English]
choosy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. fastidious. choosiness n.
chop1 -v. (-pp-) 1 (usu. foll. by off, down, etc.) cut or fell by the blow of an axe etc. 2 (often foll. by up) cut into small pieces. 3 strike (esp. a ball) with a short heavy edgewise blow. -n. 1 cutting blow. 2 thick slice of meat (esp. pork or lamb) usu. including a rib. 3 short chopping stroke in cricket etc. 4 (prec. by the) slang a = *sack1 n. 2. b killing or being killed. [related to *chap2]
chop2 n. (usu. in pl.) jaw. [origin unknown]
chop3 v. (-pp-) chop and change vacillate; change direction frequently. chop logic argue pedantically. [perhaps related to *cheap]
chopper n. 1 a short axe with a large blade. b butcher's cleaver. 2 colloq. helicopter. 3 colloq. type of bicycle or motor cycle with high handlebars.
choppy adj. (-ier, -iest) (of the sea etc.) fairly rough. choppily adv. choppiness n. [from *chop1]
chopstick n. each of a pair of sticks held in one hand as eating utensils by the Chinese, Japanese, etc. [pidgin English from Chinese, = nimble ones]
chopsuey n. (pl. -s) Chinese-style dish of meat fried with vegetables and rice. [Chinese, = mixed bits]
choral adj. of, for, or sung by a choir or chorus. [medieval Latin: related to *chorus]
chorale n. 1 simple stately hymn tune; harmonized form of this. 2 esp. US choir. [German: related to *choral]
chord1 n. group of notes sounded together. [originally cord from *accord]
chord2 n. 1 straight line joining the ends of an arc or curve. 2 poet. string of a harp etc. strike a chord elicit sympathy. [var. of *cord]
chordate -n. animal having a cartilaginous skeletal rod at some stage of its development. -adj. of chordates. [Latin chorda *chord2 after Vertebrata etc.]
chore n. tedious or routine task, esp. domestic. [from *char2]
choreograph v. compose choreography for (a ballet etc.). choreographer n.
choreography n. design or arrangement of a ballet etc. choreographic adj. [Greek khoreia dance]
chorister n. member of a choir, esp. a choirboy. [French: related to *choir]
chortle -n. gleeful chuckle. -v. (-ling) utter or express with a chortle. [probably from *chuckle, *snort]
chorus -n. (pl. -es) 1 group of singers; choir. 2 music composed for a choir. 3 refrain or main part of a song. 4 simultaneous utterance. 5 group of singers and dancers performing together. 6 Gk Antiq. a group of performers who comment on the action in a Greek play. b utterance made by it. 7 character speaking the prologue in a play. -v. (-s-) speak or utter simultaneously. [Latin from Greek]
chose past of *choose.
chosen past part. of *choose.
chough n. bird with glossy blue-black plumage and red legs. [imitative]
choux pastry n. very light pastry enriched with eggs. [French]
chow n. 1 slang food. 2 dog of a Chinese breed with long woolly hair. [Chinese chow-chow]
chow mein n. Chinese-style dish of fried noodles with shredded meat or shrimps etc. and vegetables. [Chinese chao mian fried flour]
Christ -n. 1 title, also now treated as a name, given to Jesus. 2 Messiah as prophesied in the Old Testament. -int. slang expressing surprise, anger, etc. [Greek, = anointed]
christen v. 1 baptize as a sign of admission to the Christian Church. 2 give a name to. 3 colloq. use for the first time. christening n. [Latin: related to *Christian]
Christendom n. Christians worldwide.
Christian -adj. 1 of Christ's teaching. 2 believing in or following the religion of Christ. 3 showing the associated qualities. 4 colloq. kind. -n. adherent of Christianity. [Latin Christianus of *Christ]
Christian era n. era reckoned from Christ's birth.
Christianity n. 1 Christian religion. 2 being a Christian; Christian quality or character.
Christian name n. forename, esp. as given at baptism.
Christian Science n. Christian sect believing in the power of healing by prayer alone. Christian Scientist n.
Christmas n. 1 (also Christmas Day) annual festival of Christ's birth, celebrated on 25 Dec. 2 period around this. Christmassy adj. [Old English: related to *Christ, *mass2]
Christmas-box n. present or gratuity given at Christmas.
Christmas Eve n. 24 Dec.
Christmas pudding n. rich boiled pudding of flour, suet, dried fruit, etc.
Christmas rose n. white-flowered winter-blooming hellebore.
Christmas tree n. evergreen tree or imitation of this set up and decorated at Christmas.
chromatic adj. 1 of colour; in colours. 2 Mus. a of or having notes not belonging to a particular diatonic scale. b (of a scale) ascending or descending by semitones. chromatically adv. [Greek khroma -mat- colour]
chromatin n. chromosome material in a cell nucleus which stains with basic dyes. [Greek: related to *chrome]
chromatography n. separation of the components of a mixture by slow passage through or over material which adsorbs them differently. [Greek: related to *chrome]
chrome n. 1 chromium, esp. as plating. 2 (in full chrome yellow) yellow pigment got from a certain compound of chromium. [Greek khroma colour]
chromite n. mineral of chromium and iron oxides.
chromium n. metallic element used as a shiny decorative or protective coating.
chromium plate n. protective coating of chromium.
chromosome n. threadlike structure, usu. found in the cell nucleus of animals and plants, carrying genes. [Greek: related to *chrome, soma body]
chronic adj. 1 (esp. of an illness) long-lasting. 2 having a chronic complaint. 3 colloq. very bad; intense, severe. 4 colloq. habitual, inveterate (a chronic liar). chronically adv. [Greek khronos time]
Usage The use of chronic in sense 3 is very informal, and its use in sense 4 is considered incorrect by some people.
chronicle -n. register of events in order of occurrence. -v. (-ling) record (events) thus. [Greek khronika: related to *chronic]
chronological adj. 1 according to order of occurrence. 2 of chronology. chronologically adv.
chronology n. (pl. -ies) 1 science of determining dates. 2 a arrangement of events etc. in order of occurrence. b table or document displaying this. [Greek khronos time, *-logy]
chronometer n. time-measuring instrument, esp. one used in navigation. [from *chronology, *-meter]
chrysalis n. (pl. -lises) 1 pupa of a butterfly or moth. 2 case enclosing it. [Greek khrusos gold]
chrysanthemum n. garden plant of the daisy family blooming in autumn. [Greek, = gold flower]
chrysoberyl n. yellowish-green gem. [Greek khrusos gold, *beryl]
chrysolite n. precious variety of olivine. [Greek khrusos gold, lithos stone]
chrysoprase n. apple-green variety of chalcedony. [Greek khrusos gold, prason leek]
chub n. (pl. same) thick-bodied river fish. [origin unknown]
Chubb n. (in full Chubb lock) propr. lock with a device for fixing the bolt immovably should someone try to pick it. [Chubb, name of a locksmith]
chubby adj. (-ier, -iest) plump and rounded. [from *chub]
chuck1 -v. 1 colloq. fling or throw carelessly or casually. 2 (often foll. by in, up) colloq. give up; reject. 3 touch playfully, esp. under the chin. -n. 1 playful touch under the chin. 2 toss. the chuck slang dismissal; rejection. chuck out colloq. 1 expel (a person) from a gathering etc. 2 get rid of, discard. [perhaps from French chuquer knock]
chuck2 -n. 1 cut of beef from neck to ribs. 2 device for holding a workpiece or bit. -v. fix to a chuck. [var. of *chock]
chuckle -v. (-ling) laugh quietly or inwardly. -n. quiet or suppressed laugh. [chuck cluck]
chuff v. (of an engine etc.) work with a regular sharp puffing sound. [imitative]
chuffed adj. slang delighted. [dial. chuff]
chug -v. (-gg-) 1 emit a regular muffled explosive sound, as of an engine running slowly. 2 move with this sound. -n. chugging sound. [imitative]
chukka boot n. ankle-high leather boot.
chukker n. (also chukka) period of play in polo. [Sanskrit cakra wheel]
chum n. colloq. close friend. chum up (-mm-) (often foll. by with) become a close friend (of). chummy adj. (-ier, -iest). chummily adv. chumminess n. [abbreviation of chamber-fellow]
chump n. 1 colloq. foolish person. 2 thick end of a loin of lamb or mutton (chump chop). 3 short thick block of wood. off one's chump slang crazy. [blend of *chunk, *lump1]
chunk n. 1 thick piece cut or broken off. 2 substantial amount. [var. of *chuck2]
chunky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 consisting of or resembling chunks; thick, substantial. 2 small and sturdy. chunkiness n.
chunter v. colloq. mutter, grumble. [probably imitative]
chupatty var. of *chapatti.
church n. 1 building for public Christian worship. 2 public worship (met after church). 3 (Church) a body of all Christians. b clergy or clerical profession. c organized Christian society (the early Church). [Greek kuriakon Lord's (house)]
churchgoer n. person attending church regularly.
churchman n. member of the clergy or of a Church.
Church of England n. English Protestant Church.
churchwarden n. either of two elected lay representatives of an Anglican parish.
churchyard n. enclosed ground around a church used for burials.
churl n. 1 ill-bred person. 2 archaic peasant. [Old English, = man]
churlish adj. surly; mean. churlishly adv. churlishness n. [from *churl]
churn -n. 1 large milk-can. 2 butter-making machine. -v. 1 agitate (milk or cream) in a churn. 2 produce (butter) in a churn. 3 (usu. foll. by up) upset, agitate. churn out produce in large quantities. [Old English]
chute1 n. sloping channel or slide for sending things to a lower level. [Latin cado fall]
chute2 n. colloq. parachute. [abbreviation]
chutney n. (pl. -s) pungent condiment of fruits, vinegar, spices, etc. [Hindi]
chutzpah n. slang shameless audacity. [Yiddish]
chyle n. milky fluid of food materials formed in the intestine after digestion. [Greek khulos juice]
chyme n. acid pulp formed from partly-digested food. [Greek khumos juice]
CIA abbr. (in the US) Central Intelligence Agency.
ciao int. colloq. 1 goodbye. 2 hello. [Italian]
cicada n. large transparent-winged insect making a rhythmic chirping sound. [Latin]
cicatrice n. scar left by a wound. [Latin]
cicely n. (pl. -ies) flowering plant related to parsley and chervil. [Greek seselis]
cicerone n. (pl. -roni pronunc. same) person who guides sightseers. [Latin Cicero, name of a Roman statesman]
CID abbr. Criminal Investigation Department.
-cide suffix 1 person or substance that kills (regicide; insecticide). 2 killing of (infanticide). [Latin caedo kill]
cider n. drink of fermented apple juice. [Hebrew, = strong drink]
cigar n. tight roll of tobacco-leaves for smoking. [French or Spanish]
cigarette n. finely-cut tobacco rolled in paper for smoking. [French diminutive]
cilium n. (pl. cilia) 1 minute hairlike structure on the surface of many animal cells. 2 eyelash. ciliary adj. ciliate adj. [Latin, = eyelash]
cinch n. colloq. 1 sure thing; certainty. 2 easy task. [Spanish cincha saddle-girth]
cinchona n. 1 a S. American evergreen tree or shrub. b its bark, containing quinine. 2 drug from this. [Countess of Chinchón]
cincture n. literary girdle, belt, or border. [Latin cingo gird]
cinder n. 1 residue of coal or wood etc. after burning. 2 (in pl.) ashes. [Old English sinder = slag]
Cinderella n. person or thing of unrecognized or disregarded merit or beauty. [name of a girl in a fairy tale]
cine- comb. form cinematographic (cine-camera). [abbreviation]
cinema n. 1 theatre where films are shown. 2 a films collectively. b art or industry of producing films. cinematic adj. [French: related to *kinematics]
cinematography n. art of making films. cinematographer n. cinematographic adj.
cineraria n. composite plant with bright flowers and ash-coloured down on its leaves. [Latin cinis -ner- ashes]
cinnabar n. 1 bright red mercuric sulphide. 2 vermilion. 3 moth with reddish-marked wings. [Latin from Greek]
cinnamon n. 1 aromatic spice from the bark of a SE Asian tree. 2 this tree. 3 yellowish-brown. [Greek kinnamon]
cinque n. the five on dice. [Latin quinque five]
cinquefoil n. 1 plant with compound leaves of five leaflets. 2 Archit. five-cusped ornament in a circle or arch. [Latin: related to *cinque, folium leaf]
Cinque Ports n.pl. group of (orig. five) ports in SE England with ancient privileges. [Latin quinque portus five ports]
cipher (also cypher) -n. 1 a secret or disguised writing. b thing so written. c key to it. 2 arithmetical symbol (0) used to occupy a vacant place in decimal etc. numeration. 3 person or thing of no importance. -v. write in cipher. [Arabic sifr]
circa prep. (preceding a date) about. [Latin]
circadian adj. Physiol. occurring about once per day. [from *circa, Latin dies day]
circle -n. 1 round plane figure whose circumference is everywhere equidistant from its centre. 2 circular or roundish enclosure or structure. 3 curved upper tier of seats in a theatre etc. 4 circular route. 5 persons grouped round a centre of interest. 6 set or restricted group (literary circles). -v. (-ling) 1 (often foll. by round, about) move in a circle. 2 a revolve round. b form a circle round. come full circle return to the starting-point. [Latin diminutive: related to *circus]
circlet n. 1 small circle. 2 circular band, esp. as an ornament.
circuit n. 1 line or course enclosing an area; the distance round. 2 a path of an electric current. b apparatus through which a current passes. 3 a judge's itinerary through a district to hold courts. b such a district. c lawyers following a circuit. 4 chain of theatres, cinemas, etc. under a single management. 5 motor-racing track. 6 itinerary or specific sphere of operation (election circuit; cabaret circuit). 7 sequence of sporting events or athletic exercises. [Latin: related to *circum-, eo it- go]
circuit-breaker n. automatic device for interrupting an electric circuit.
circuitous adj. 1 indirect. 2 going a long way round.
circuitry n. (pl. -ies) 1 system of electric circuits. 2 equipment forming this.
circular -adj. 1 a having the form of a circle. b moving (roughly) in a circle, finishing at the starting-point (circular walk). 2 (of reasoning) using the point it is trying to prove as evidence for its conclusion, hence invalid. 3 (of a letter etc.) distributed to a number of people. -n. circular letter, leaflet, etc. circularity n. [Latin: related to *circle]
circularize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) distribute circulars to.
circular saw n. power saw with a rapidly rotating toothed disc.
circulate v. (-ting) 1 be in circulation; spread. 2 a put into circulation. b send circulars to. 3 move about among guests etc. [Latin: related to *circle]
circulation n. 1 movement to and fro, or from and back to a starting-point, esp. that of the blood from and to the heart. 2 a transmission or distribution. b number of copies sold. in (or out of) circulation active (or not active) socially.
circulatory adj. of circulation, esp. of the blood.
circum- comb. form round, about. [Latin]
circumcise v. (-sing) cut off the foreskin or clitoris of. circumcision n. [Latin caedo cut]
circumference n. 1 enclosing boundary, esp. of a circle. 2 distance round. circumferential adj. [Latin fero carry]
circumflex n. (in full circumflex accent) mark (ˆ) placed over a vowel to show contraction, length, etc. [Latin: related to *flex1]
circumlocution n. 1 a roundabout expression. b evasive talk. 2 verbosity. circumlocutory adj.
circumnavigate v. (-ting) sail round (esp. the world). circumnavigation n.
circumscribe v. (-bing) 1 (of a line etc.) enclose or outline. 2 lay down the limits of; confine, restrict. 3 Geom. draw (a figure) round another, touching it at points but not cutting it. circumscription n. [Latin scribo write]
circumspect adj. cautious; taking everything into account. circumspection n. circumspectly adv. [Latin specio spect- look]
circumstance n. 1 fact, occurrence, or condition, esp. (in pl.) connected with or influencing an event; (bad) luck (victim of circumstance(s)). 2 (in pl.) one's financial or material condition. 3 ceremony, fuss. in (or under) the circumstances the state of affairs being what it is. in (or under) no circumstances not at all; never. circumstanced adj. [Latin sto stand]
circumstantial adj. 1 giving full details (circumstantial account). 2 (of evidence etc.) indicating a conclusion by inference from known facts hard to explain otherwise. circumstantiality n.
circumvent v. 1 evade, find a way round. 2 baffle, outwit. circumvention n. [Latin venio vent- come]
circus n. (pl. -es) 1 travelling show of performing acrobats, clowns, animals, etc. 2 colloq. a scene of lively action. b group of people in a common activity, esp. sport. 3 open space in a town, where several streets converge. 4 Rom. Antiq. arena for sports and games. [Latin, = ring]
cirrhosis n. chronic liver disease, as a result of alcoholism etc. [Greek kirrhos tawny]
cirrus n. (pl. cirri) 1 white wispy cloud at high altitude. 2 tendril or appendage of a plant or animal. [Latin, = curl]
cisalpine adj. on the south side of the Alps. [Latin cis- on this side of]
cissy var. of *sissy.
Cistercian -n. monk or nun of the order founded as a stricter branch of the Benedictines. -adj. of the Cistercians. [French Cîteaux in France]
cistern n. 1 tank for storing water. 2 underground reservoir. [Latin cista box, from Greek]
cistus n. shrub with large white or red flowers. [Latin from Greek]
citadel n. fortress, usu. on high ground, protecting or dominating a city. [French citadelle]
citation n. 1 citing; passage cited. 2 Mil. mention in dispatches. 3 description of the reasons for an award.
cite v. (-ting) 1 mention as an example etc. 2 quote (a book etc.) in support. 3 Mil. mention in dispatches. 4 summon to appear in court. [Latin cieo set in motion]
citizen n. 1 member of a State, either native or naturalized. 2 inhabitant of a city. 3 US civilian. citizenry n. citizenship n. [Anglo-French: related to *city]
citizen's band n. system of local intercommunication by individuals on special radio frequencies.
citrate n. a salt of citric acid.
citric adj. derived from citrus fruit.
citric acid n. sharp-tasting acid in citrus fruits.
citron n. 1 tree with large lemon-like fruits. 2 this fruit. [French from Latin *citrus]
citronella n. 1 a fragrant oil. 2 grass from S. Asia yielding it.
citrus n. (pl. -es) 1 tree of a group including the lemon, orange, and grapefruit. 2 (in full citrus fruit) fruit of such a tree. [Latin]
city n. (pl. -ies) 1 large town, strictly one created by charter and containing a cathedral. 2 (the City) a part of London governed by the Lord Mayor and Corporation. b business part of this. c commercial circles. [Latin civitas: related to *civic]
city-state n. esp. hist. city that with its surrounding territory forms an independent State.
civet n. 1 (in full civet-cat) catlike animal of Central Africa. 2 strong musky perfume obtained from it. [French ultimately from Arabic]
civic adj. 1 of a city. 2 of citizens or citizenship. civically adv. [Latin civis citizen]
civic centre n. 1 area where municipal offices etc. are situated. 2 the offices themselves.
civics n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) the study of the rights and duties of citizenship.
civil adj. 1 of or belonging to citizens. 2 of ordinary citizens; non-military. 3 polite, obliging, not rude. 4 Law concerning private rights and not criminal offences. 5 (of the length of a day, year, etc.) fixed by custom or law, not natural or astronomical. civilly adv. [Latin civilis: related to *civic]
civil defence n. organizing of civilians for protection during wartime attacks.
civil disobedience n. refusal to comply with certain laws as a peaceful protest.
civil engineer n. one who designs or maintains roads, bridges, dams, etc.
civilian -n. person not in the armed services or police force. -adj. of or for civilians.
civility n. (pl. -ies) 1 politeness. 2 act of politeness. [Latin: related to *civil]
civilization n. (also -isation) 1 advanced stage or system of social development. 2 peoples of the world that are regarded as having this. 3 a people or nation (esp. of the past) regarded as an element of social evolution (Inca civilization).
civilize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 bring out of a barbarous or primitive stage of society. 2 enlighten; refine and educate. [French: related to *civil]
civil liberty n. (often in pl.) freedom of action subject to the law.
civil list n. annual allowance voted by Parliament for the royal family's household expenses.
civil marriage n. one solemnized without religious ceremony.
civil rights n.pl. rights of citizens to freedom and equality.
civil servant n. member of the civil service.
civil service n. branches of State administration, excluding military and judicial branches and elected politicians.
civil war n. war between citizens of the same country.
civvies n.pl. slang civilian clothes. [abbreviation]
Civvy Street n. slang civilian life. [abbreviation]
Cl symb. chlorine.
cl abbr. centilitre(s).
clack -v. 1 make a sharp sound as of boards struck together. 2 chatter. -n. clacking noise or talk. [imitative]
clad adj. 1 clothed. 2 provided with cladding. [past part. of *clothe]
cladding n. covering or coating on a structure or material etc.
cladistics n.pl. (usu. treated as sing.) Biol. method of classifying animals and plants on the basis of shared characteristics. [Greek klados branch]
claim -v. 1 state, declare, assert. 2 demand as one's due or property. 3 represent oneself as having or achieving (claim victory). 4 (foll. by to + infin.) profess. 5 have as an achievement or consequence (fire claimed two victims). 6 (of a thing) deserve (attention etc.). -n. 1 demand or request for a thing considered one's due (lay claim to; put in a claim). 2 (foll. by to, on) right or title to a thing. 3 assertion. 4 thing claimed. [Latin clamo call out]
claimant n. person making a claim, esp. in a lawsuit, or claiming State benefit.
clairvoyance n. supposed faculty of perceiving the future or things beyond normal sensory perception. clairvoyant n. & adj. [French: related to *clear, voir see]
clam -n. edible bivalve mollusc. -v. (-mm-) (foll. by up) colloq. refuse to talk. [related to *clamp1]
clamber -v. climb laboriously using hands and feet. -n. difficult climb. [from *climb]
clammy adj. (-ier, -iest) unpleasantly damp and sticky. clammily adv. clamminess n. [clam to daub]
clamor (Brit. clamour) -n. 1 loud or vehement shouting or noise. 2 protest, demand. -v. 1 make a clamour. 2 utter with a clamour. clamorous adj. [Latin: related to *claim]
clamour (US clamor) -n. 1 loud or vehement shouting or noise. 2 protest, demand. -v. 1 make a clamour. 2 utter with a clamour. clamorous adj. [Latin: related to *claim]
clamp1 -n. 1 device, esp. a brace or band of iron etc., for strengthening or holding things together. 2 device for immobilizing an illegally parked vehicle. -v. 1 strengthen or fasten with a clamp; fix firmly. 2 immobilize (a vehicle) with a clamp. clamp down (usu. foll. by on) become stricter (about); suppress. [Low German or Dutch]
clamp2 n. potatoes etc. stored under straw or earth. [Dutch: related to *clump]
clamp-down n. sudden policy of suppression.
clan n. 1 group of people with a common ancestor, esp. in the Scottish Highlands. 2 large family as a social group. 3 group with a strong common interest. [Gaelic]
clandestine adj. surreptitious, secret. [Latin]
clang -n. loud resonant metallic sound. -v. (cause to) make a clang. [imitative: cf. Latin clango resound]
clanger n. slang mistake, blunder.
clangor n. (Brit. clangour) prolonged clanging. clangorous adj.
clangour n. (US clangor) prolonged clanging. clangorous adj.
clank -n. sound as of metal on metal. -v. (cause to) make a clank. [imitative]
clannish adj. often derog. (of a family or group) associating closely with each other; inward-looking.
clansman n. (fem. clanswoman) member or fellow-member of a clan.
clap1 -v. (-pp-) 1 a strike the palms of one's hands together, esp. repeatedly as applause. b strike (the hands) together in this way. 2 applaud thus. 3 put or place quickly or with determination (clapped him in prison; clap a tax on whisky). 4 (foll. by on) give a friendly slap (clapped him on the back). -n. 1 act of clapping, esp. as applause. 2 explosive sound, esp. of thunder. 3 slap, pat. clap eyes on colloq. see. [Old English]
clap2 n. coarse slang venereal disease, esp. gonorrhoea. [French]
clapped out adj. slang worn out; exhausted.
clapper n. tongue or striker of a bell. like the clappers slang very fast or hard.
clapperboard n. device in film-making of hinged boards struck together to synchronize the starting of picture and sound machinery.
claptrap n. insincere or pretentious talk, nonsense.
claque n. group of people hired to applaud. [French]
claret n. 1 red wine, esp. from Bordeaux. 2 purplish-red. [French: related to *clarify]
clarify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make or become clearer. 2 a free (liquid etc.) from impurities. b make transparent. clarification n. [Latin: related to *clear]
clarinet n. woodwind instrument with a single reed. clarinettist n. (US clarinetist). [French diminutive of clarine, a kind of bell]
clarion n. 1 clear rousing sound. 2 hist. shrill war-trumpet. [Latin: related to *clear]
clarity n. clearness.
clash -n. 1 a loud jarring sound as of metal objects struck together. b collision. 2 a conflict. b discord of colours etc. -v. 1 (cause to) make a clashing sound. 2 collide; coincide awkwardly. 3 (often foll. by with) a come into conflict or be at variance. b (of colours) be discordant. [imitative]
clasp -n. 1 device with interlocking parts for fastening. 2 a embrace. b grasp, handshake. 3 bar on a medal-ribbon. -v. 1 fasten with or as with a clasp. 2 a grasp, hold closely. b embrace. [Old English]
clasp-knife n. folding knife, usu. with a catch to hold the blade open.
class -n. 1 any set of persons or things grouped together, or graded or differentiated from others esp. by quality (first class; economy class). 2 division or order of society (upper class). 3 colloq. distinction, high quality. 4 a group of students taught together. b occasion when they meet. c their course of instruction. 5 division of candidates by merit in an examination. 6 Biol. next grouping of organisms below a division or phylum. -v. assign to a class or category. in a class of (or on) its (or one's) own unequalled. classless adj. [Latin classis assembly]
class-conscious adj. aware of social divisions or one's place in them. class-consciousness n.
classic -adj. 1 first-class; of lasting value and importance. 2 very typical (a classic case). 3 a of ancient Greek and Latin literature, art, etc. b (of style) simple, harmonious. 4 famous because long-established. -n. 1 classic writer, artist, work, or example. 2 (in pl.) ancient Greek and Latin. [Latin classicus: related to *class]
classical adj. 1 a of ancient Greek or Roman literature or art. b (of a language) having the form used by ancient standard authors. 2 (of music) serious or conventional, or of the period from c.1750-1800. 3 restrained in style. classicality n. classically adv.
classicism n. 1 following of a classic style. 2 classical scholarship. 3 ancient Greek or Latin idiom. classicist n.
classify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 a arrange in classes or categories. b assign to a class or category. 2 designate as officially secret or not for general disclosure. classifiable adj. classification n. classificatory adj. [French: related to *class]
classmate n. person in the same class at school.
classroom n. room where a class of students is taught.
classy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. superior, stylish. classily adv. classiness n.
clatter -n. sound as of hard objects struck together. -v. (cause to) make a clatter. [Old English]
clause n. 1 Gram. part of a sentence, including a subject and predicate. 2 single statement in a treaty, law, contract, etc. clausal adj. [Latin clausula: related to *close2]
Clause 28 n. clause in the Local Government Bill (and later Act) banning local authorities from promoting homosexuality.
claustrophobia n. abnormal fear of confined places. claustrophobic adj. [Latin claustrum *cloister, *-phobia]
clavichord n. small keyboard instrument with a very soft tone. [medieval Latin: related to *clavicle]
clavicle n. collar-bone. [Latin clavis key]
claw -n. 1 a pointed nail on an animal's foot. b foot armed with claws. 2 pincers of a shellfish. 3 device for grappling, holding, etc. -v. scratch, maul, or pull with claws or fingernails. [Old English]
claw back v. regain laboriously or gradually.
claw-hammer n. hammer with one side of the head forked for extracting nails.
clay n. 1 stiff sticky earth, used for making bricks, pottery, etc. 2 poet. substance of the human body. clayey adj. [Old English]
claymore n. hist. Scottish two-edged broadsword. [Gaelic, = great sword]
clay pigeon n. breakable disc thrown up from a trap as a target for shooting.
clean -adj. 1 free from dirt or impurities, unsoiled. 2 clear; unused; pristine (clean air; clean page). 3 not obscene or indecent. 4 attentive to personal hygiene and cleanliness. 5 complete, clear-cut. 6 showing no record of crime, disease, etc. 7 fair (a clean fight). 8 streamlined; well-formed. 9 adroit, skilful. 10 (of a nuclear weapon) producing relatively little fallout. -adv. 1 completely, outright, simply. 2 in a clean manner. -v. make or become clean. -n. act or process of cleaning. clean out 1 clean thoroughly. 2 slang empty or deprive (esp. of money). clean up 1 a clear away (a mess). b (also absol.) put (things) tidy. c make (oneself) clean. 2 restore order or morality to. 3 slang acquire as or make a profit. come clean colloq. confess fully. make a clean breast of see *breast. [Old English]
clean bill of health n. declaration that there is no disease or defect.
clean-cut adj. 1 sharply outlined or defined. 2 (of a person) clean and tidy.
cleaner n. 1 person employed to clean rooms etc. 2 establishment for cleaning clothes etc. 3 device or substance for cleaning. take a person to the cleaners slang 1 defraud or rob a person. 2 criticize severely.
cleanly1 adv. in a clean way.
cleanly2 adj. (-ier, -iest) habitually clean; with clean habits. cleanliness n.
cleanse v. (-sing) make clean or pure. cleanser n.
clean-shaven adj. without beard or moustache.
clean sheet n. (also clean slate) freedom from commitments or imputations; removal of these from one's record.
clean-up n. act of cleaning up.
clear -adj. 1 free from dirt or contamination. 2 (of weather, the sky, etc.) not dull. 3 transparent. 4 a easily perceived; distinct; evident (a clear voice; it is clear that). b easily understood. 5 discerning readily and accurately (clear mind). 6 confident, convinced. 7 (of a conscience) free from guilt. 8 (of a road etc.) unobstructed. 9 a net, without deduction. b complete (three clear days). 10 (often foll. by of) free, unhampered; unencumbered. -adv. 1 clearly. 2 completely (got clear away). 3 apart, out of contact (keep clear). -v. 1 make or become clear. 2 (often foll. by of) make or become free from obstruction etc. 3 (often foll. by of) show (a person) to be innocent. 4 approve (a person etc.) for a special duty, access, etc. 5 pass over or by, safely or without touching. 6 make (an amount of money) as a net gain or to balance expenses. 7 pass (a cheque) through a clearing-house. 8 pass through (customs etc.). 9 disappear (mist cleared). clear the air remove suspicion, tension, etc. clear away 1 remove (esp. dishes etc.). 2 disappear. clear the decks prepare for action. clear off colloq. go away. clear out 1 empty, tidy by emptying. 2 remove. 3 colloq. go away. clear up 1 tidy up. 2 solve. 3 (of weather) become fine. 4 disappear (cold has cleared up). clear a thing with get approval or authorization for it from (a person). in the clear free from suspicion or difficulty. clearly adj. clearness n. [Latin clarus]
clearance n. 1 removal of obstructions etc. 2 space allowed for the passing of two objects or parts in machinery etc. 3 special authorization. 4 a clearing by customs. b certificate showing this. 5 clearing of cheques. 6 clearing out.
clear-cut adj. sharply defined.
clear-headed adj. thinking clearly, sensible.
clearing n. open area in a forest.
clearing bank n. bank which is a member of a clearing-house.
clearing-house n. 1 bankers' establishment where cheques and bills are exchanged, only the balances being paid in cash. 2 agency for collecting and distributing information etc.
clear-out n. tidying by emptying and sorting.
clear-sighted adj. seeing, thinking, or understanding clearly.
clear-up n. 1 tidying up. 2 (usu. attrib.) solving of crimes (clear-up rates).
clearway n. main road (other than a motorway) on which vehicles may not normally stop.
cleat n. 1 piece of metal, wood, etc., bolted on for fastening ropes to, or to strengthen woodwork etc. 2 projecting piece on a spar, gangway, etc. to prevent slipping. [Old English]
cleavage n. 1 hollow between a woman's breasts. 2 division, splitting. 3 line along which rocks, crystals, etc. split.
cleave1 v. (-ving; past clove or cleft or cleaved; past part. cloven or cleft or cleaved) literary 1 chop or break apart; split, esp. along the grain or line of cleavage. 2 make one's way through (air or water). [Old English]
cleave2 v. (-ving) (foll. by to) literary stick fast; adhere. [Old English]
cleaver n. butcher's heavy chopping tool.
clef n. Mus. symbol indicating the pitch of notes on a staff. [Latin clavis key]
cleft1 adj. split, partly divided. [past part. of *cleave1]
cleft2 n. split, fissure. [Old English: related to *cleave1]
cleft palate n. congenital split in the roof of the mouth.
clematis n. climbing plant with white, pink, or purple flowers. [Greek]
clement adj. 1 (of weather) mild. 2 merciful. clemency n. [Latin clemens]
clementine n. small tangerine-like citrus fruit. [French]
clench -v. 1 close (the teeth, fingers, etc.) tightly. 2 grasp firmly. -n. clenching action; clenched state. [Old English]
clerestory n. (pl. -ies) upper row of windows in a cathedral or large church, above the level of the aisle roofs. [clear storey]
clergy n. (pl. -ies) (usu. treated as pl.) those ordained for religious duties. [French (related to *cleric) and Church Latin]
clergyman n. member of the clergy.
cleric n. member of the clergy. [Greek klerikos from kleros lot, heritage]
clerical adj. 1 of clergy or clergymen. 2 of or done by clerks.
clerical collar n. stiff upright white collar fastening at the back.
clerihew n. short comic biographical verse in two rhyming couplets. [E. Clerihew Bentley, name of its inventor]
clerk -n. 1 person employed to keep records, accounts, etc. 2 secretary or agent of a local council, court, etc. 3 lay officer of a church. -v. work as clerk. [Old English and French: related to *cleric]
clever adj. (-er, -est) 1 skilful, talented; quick to understand and learn. 2 adroit, dexterous. 3 ingenious. cleverly adv. cleverness n. [Old English]
cliché n. 1 hackneyed phrase or opinion. 2 metal casting of a stereotype or electrotype. clichéd adj. (also cliché'd). [French]
click -n. slight sharp sound. -v. 1 (cause to) make a click. 2 colloq. a become clear or understood. b be popular. c (foll. by with) strike up a rapport. [imitative]
client n. 1 person using the services of a lawyer, architect, or other professional person. 2 customer. [Latin cliens]
clientele n. 1 clients collectively. 2 customers. [French and Latin: related to *client]
cliff n. steep rock-face, esp. on a coast. [Old English]
cliff-hanger n. story etc. with a strong element of suspense.
climacteric n. period of life when fertility and sexual activity are in decline. [Greek: related to *climax]
climate n. 1 prevailing weather conditions of an area. 2 region with particular weather conditions. 3 prevailing trend of opinion or feeling. climatic adj. climatically adv. [Greek klima]
climax -n. 1 event or point of greatest intensity or interest; culmination. 2 orgasm. -v. colloq. reach or bring to a climax. climactic adj. [Greek, = ladder]
climb -v. 1 (often foll. by up) ascend, mount, go or come up. 2 grow up a wall etc. by clinging or twining. 3 progress, esp. in social rank. -n. 1 ascent by climbing. 2 hill etc. climbed or to be climbed. climb down 1 descend, esp. using hands. 2 withdraw from a stance taken up in an argument etc. climber n. [Old English]
climb-down n. withdrawal from a stance taken up.
climbing-frame n. structure of joined bars etc. for children to climb on.
clime n. literary 1 region. 2 climate. [Latin: related to *climate]
clinch -v. 1 confirm or settle (an argument, bargain, etc.) conclusively. 2 (of boxers etc.) become too closely engaged. 3 secure (a nail or rivet) by driving the point sideways when through. -n. 1 a clinching action. b clinched state. 2 colloq. embrace. [var. of *clench]
clincher n. colloq. point or remark that settles an argument etc.
cling v. (past and past part. clung) 1 (often foll. by to) adhere. 2 (foll. by to) be unwilling to give up; be emotionally dependent on (a habit, idea, friend, etc.). 3 (often foll. by to) maintain grasp; keep hold; resist separation. clingy adj. (-ier, -iest). [Old English]
cling film n. thin transparent plastic covering for food.
clinic n. 1 private or specialized hospital. 2 place or occasion for giving medical treatment or specialist advice. 3 gathering at a hospital bedside for medical teaching. [Greek kline bed]
clinical adj. 1 of or for the treatment of patients. 2 dispassionate, coolly detached. 3 (of a room, building, etc.) bare, functional. clinically adv. [Greek: related to *clinic]
clinical death n. death judged by professional observation of a person's condition.
clink1 -n. sharp ringing sound. -v. (cause to) make a clink. [Dutch: imitative]
clink2 n. slang prison. [origin unknown]
clinker n. 1 mass of slag or lava. 2 stony residue from burnt coal. [Dutch: related to *clink1]
clinker-built adj. (of a boat) having external planks overlapping downwards and secured with clinched nails. [clink, Northern English var. of *clinch]
clip1 -n. 1 device for holding things together or for attaching something. 2 piece of jewellery fastened by a clip. 3 set of attached cartridges for a firearm. -v. (-pp-) fix with a clip. [Old English]
clip2 -v. (-pp-) 1 cut (hair, wool, etc.) short with shears or scissors. 2 trim or remove the hair or wool of. 3 colloq. hit smartly. 4 a omit (a letter etc.) from a word. b omit letters or syllables of (words uttered). 5 punch a hole in (a ticket) to show it has been used. 6 cut from a newspaper etc. 7 slang swindle, rob. -n. 1 act of clipping. 2 colloq. smart blow. 3 sequence from a motion picture. 4 yield of wool etc. 5 colloq. speed, esp. rapid. [Old Norse]
clipboard n. small board with a spring clip for holding papers etc.
clip-joint n. slang club etc. charging exorbitant prices.
clip-on adj. attached by a clip.
clipper n. 1 (usu. in pl.) instrument for clipping hair etc. 2 hist. fast sailing-ship.
clipping n. piece clipped, esp. from a newspaper.
clique n. small exclusive group of people. cliquey adj. (cliquier, cliquiest). cliquish adj. [French]
clitoris n. small erectile part of the female genitals at the upper end of the vulva. clitoral adj. [Latin from Greek]
Cllr. abbr. Councillor.
cloak -n. 1 outdoor usu. long and sleeveless over-garment. 2 covering (cloak of snow). -v. 1 cover with a cloak. 2 conceal, disguise. under the cloak of using as pretext. [ultimately from medieval Latin clocca bell]
cloak-and-dagger adj. involving intrigue and espionage.
cloakroom n. 1 room where outdoor clothes or luggage may be left. 2 euphem. lavatory.
clobber1 v. slang 1 hit; beat up. 2 defeat. 3 criticize severely. [origin unknown]
clobber2 n. slang clothing, belongings. [origin unknown]
cloche n. 1 small translucent cover for protecting outdoor plants. 2 (in full cloche hat) woman's close-fitting bell-shaped hat. [French, = bell, medieval Latin clocca]
clock1 -n. 1 instrument for measuring and showing time. 2 a measuring device resembling this. b colloq. speedometer, taximeter, or stopwatch. 3 slang person's face. 4 seed-head of the dandelion. -v. 1 colloq. a (often foll. by up) attain or register (a stated time, distance, or speed). b time (a race) with a stopwatch. 2 slang hit. clock in (or on) register one's arrival at work. clock off (or out) register one's departure from work. round the clock all day and (usu.) night. [medieval Latin clocca bell]
clock2 n. ornamental pattern on the side of a stocking or sock near the ankle. [origin unknown]
clockwise adj. & adv. in a curve corresponding in direction to that of the hands of a clock.
clockwork n. 1 mechanism like that of a clock, with a spring and gears. 2 (attrib.) driven by clockwork. like clockwork smoothly, regularly, automatically.
clod n. lump of earth, clay, etc. [var. of *clot]
cloddish adj. loutish, foolish, clumsy.
clodhopper n. (usu. in pl.) colloq. large heavy shoe.
clog -n. shoe with a thick wooden sole. -v. (-gg-) 1 (often foll. by up) obstruct or become obstructed; choke. 2 impede. [origin unknown]
cloister -n. 1 covered walk round a quadrangle, esp. in a college or ecclesiastical building. 2 monastic life or seclusion. -v. seclude. cloistered adj. cloistral adj. [Latin claustrum: related to *close2]
clomp var. of *clump v. 2.
clone -n. 1 a group of organisms produced asexually from one stock or ancestor. b one such organism. 2 colloq. person or thing regarded as identical to another. -v. (-ning) propagate as a clone. clonal adj. [Greek klon twig]
clonk -n. abrupt heavy sound of impact. -v. 1 make this sound. 2 colloq. hit. [imitative]
close1 -adj. 1 (often foll. by to) situated at a short distance or interval. 2 a having a strong or immediate relation or connection (close friend). b in intimate friendship or association. c corresponding almost exactly (close resemblance). 3 in or almost in contact (close combat). 4 dense, compact, with no or only slight intervals. 5 (of a contest etc.) in which competitors are almost equal. 6 leaving no gaps or weaknesses, rigorous (close reasoning). 7 concentrated, searching. 8 (of air etc.) stuffy, humid. 9 closed, shut. 10 limited to certain persons etc. (close corporation). 11 hidden, secret; secretive. 12 niggardly. -adv. at only a short distance or interval. -n. 1 street closed at one end. 2 precinct of a cathedral. at close quarters very close together. closely adv. closeness n. [Latin clausus from claudo shut]
close2 -v. (-sing) 1 a shut. b block up. 2 bring or come to an end. 3 end the day's business. 4 bring or come closer or into contact. 5 make (an electric circuit etc.) continuous. -n. conclusion, end. close down (of a shop etc.) discontinue business. close in 1 enclose. 2 come nearer. 3 (of days) get successively shorter. close up 1 (often foll. by to) move closer. 2 shut. 3 block up. 4 (of an aperture) grow smaller. [Latin: related to *close1]
closed book n. subject one does not understand.
closed-circuit adj. (of television) transmitted by wires to a restricted set of receivers.
closed shop n. business etc. where employees must belong to a specified trade union.
close harmony n. harmony in which the notes of a chord are close together.
close-knit adj. tightly interlocked; closely united in friendship.
close season n. season when the killing of game etc. is illegal.
close shave n. (also close thing) colloq. narrow escape.
closet -n. 1 small room. 2 cupboard. 3 = *water-closet. 4 (attrib.) secret (closet homosexual). -v. (-t-) shut away, esp. in private conference or study. [French diminutive: related to *close2]
close-up n. photograph etc. taken at close range.
closure n. 1 closing. 2 closed state. 3 procedure for ending a debate and taking a vote. [Latin: related to *close2]
clot -n. 1 thick mass of coagulated liquid etc., esp. of blood. 2 colloq. foolish person. -v. (-tt-) form into clots. [Old English]
cloth n. 1 woven or felted material. 2 piece of this, esp. for a particular purpose; tablecloth, dishcloth, etc. 3 fabric for clothes. 4 a status, esp. of the clergy, as shown by clothes. b (prec. by the) the clergy. [Old English]
clothe v. (-thing; past and past part. clothed or formal clad) 1 put clothes on; provide with clothes. 2 cover as with clothes. [Old English]
clothes n.pl. 1 garments worn to cover the body and limbs. 2 bedclothes. [Old English]
clothes-horse n. frame for airing washed clothes.
clothes-line n. rope etc. on which clothes are hung to dry.
clothes-peg n. clip etc. for securing clothes to a clothes-line.
clothier n. seller of men's clothes.
clothing n. clothes collectively.
clotted cream n. thick cream obtained by slow scalding.
cloud -n. 1 visible mass of condensed watery vapour floating high above the ground. 2 mass of smoke or dust. 3 (foll. by of) mass of insects etc. moving together. 4 state of gloom, trouble, or suspicion. -v. 1 cover or darken with clouds or gloom or trouble. 2 (often foll. by over, up) become overcast or gloomy. 3 make unclear. on cloud nine colloq. extremely happy. under a cloud out of favour, under suspicion. with one's head in the clouds day-dreaming. cloudless adj. [Old English]
cloudburst n. sudden violent rainstorm.
cloud chamber n. device containing vapour for tracking the paths of charged particles, X-rays, and gamma rays.
cloud-cuckoo-land n. fanciful or ideal place. [translation of Greek Nephelokokkugia in Aristophanes' Birds]
cloudy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 (of the sky, weather) covered with clouds, overcast. 2 not transparent; unclear. cloudily adv. cloudiness n.
clout -n. 1 heavy blow. 2 colloq. influence, power of effective action. 3 dial. piece of cloth or clothing. -v. hit hard. [Old English]
clove1 n. dried bud of a tropical plant used as a spice. [Latin clavus nail (from its shape)]
clove2 n. small segment of a compound bulb, esp. of garlic. [Old English: related to *cleave1]
clove3 past of *cleave1.
clove hitch n. knot by which a rope is secured to a spar etc. [clove, old past part. of *cleave1]
cloven adj. split, partly divided. [past part. of *cleave1]
cloven hoof n. (also cloven foot) divided hoof, esp. of oxen, sheep, or goats, or of the Devil.
clover n. trefoil fodder plant. in clover in ease and luxury. [Old English]
clown -n. 1 comic entertainer, esp. in a circus. 2 foolish or playful person. -v. (often foll. by about, around) behave like a clown. [origin uncertain]
cloy v. satiate or sicken with sweetness, richness, etc. [obsolete acloy from Anglo-French: related to *enclave]
club -n. 1 heavy stick with a thick end, esp. as a weapon. 2 stick with a head used in golf. 3 association of persons meeting periodically for a shared activity. 4 organization or premises offering members social amenities, meals, temporary residence, etc. 5 a playing-card of the suit denoted by a black trefoil. b (in pl.) this suit. 6 commercial organization offering subscribers special deals (book club). -v. (-bb-) 1 beat with or as with a club. 2 (foll. by together, with) combine, esp. to raise a sum of money for a purpose. [Old Norse]
clubbable adj. sociable; fit for club membership.
club class n. class of fare on an aircraft etc. designed for business travellers.
club-foot n. congenitally deformed foot.
clubhouse n. premises of a (usu. sporting) club.
clubland n. area where there are many nightclubs.
club-root n. disease of cabbages etc. with swelling at the base of the stem.
club sandwich n. sandwich with two layers of filling between three slices of toast or bread.
cluck -n. guttural cry like that of a hen. -v. emit cluck(s). [imitative]
clue -n. 1 fact or idea that serves as a guide, or suggests a line of inquiry, in a problem or investigation. 2 piece of evidence etc. in the detection of a crime. 3 verbal formula as a hint to what is to be inserted in a crossword. -v. (clues, clued, cluing or clueing) provide a clue to. clue in (or up) slang inform. not have a clue colloq. be ignorant or incompetent. [var. of Old English clew]
clueless adj. colloq. ignorant, stupid.
clump -n. (foll. by of) cluster or mass, esp. of trees. -v. 1 a form a clump. b heap or plant together. 2 (also clomp) walk with a heavy tread. [Low German or Dutch]
clumsy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 awkward in movement or shape; ungainly. 2 difficult to handle or use. 3 tactless. clumsily adv. clumsiness n. [obsolete clumse be numb with cold]
clung past and past part. of *cling.
clunk -n. dull sound as of thick pieces of metal meeting. -v. make such a sound. [imitative]
cluster -n. close group or bunch of similar people or things growing or occurring together. -v. 1 bring into, come into, or be in cluster(s). 2 (foll. by round, around) gather. [Old English]
clutch1 -v. 1 seize eagerly; grasp tightly. 2 (foll. by at) try desperately to seize. -n. 1 tight grasp. 2 (in pl.) grasping hands; cruel or relentless grasp or control. 3 a (in a vehicle) device for connecting and disconnecting the engine and the transmission. b pedal operating this. [Old English]
clutch2 n. 1 set of eggs for hatching. 2 brood of chickens. [Old Norse, = hatch]
clutch bag n. slim flat handbag without handles.
clutter -n. 1 crowded and untidy collection of things. 2 untidy state. -v. (often foll. by up, with) crowd untidily, fill with clutter. [related to *clot]
Cm symb. curium.
cm abbr. centimetre(s).
CMG abbr. Companion (of the Order) of St Michael and St George.
CND abbr. Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament.
CO abbr. Commanding Officer.
Co symb. cobalt.
Co. abbr. 1 company. 2 county.
co- prefix added to: 1 nouns, with the sense 'joint, mutual, common' (co-author; coequality). 2 adjectives and adverbs, with the sense 'jointly, mutually' (coequal). 3 verbs, with the sense 'together with another or others' (cooperate). [var. of *com-]
c/o abbr. care of.
coach -n. 1 single-decker bus, usu. comfortably equipped for long journeys. 2 railway carriage. 3 closed horse-drawn carriage. 4 a instructor or trainer in a sport. b private tutor. -v. train or teach as a coach. [French from Magyar]
coachload n. group of tourists etc. taken by coach.
coachman n. driver of a horse-drawn carriage.
coachwork n. bodywork of a road or rail vehicle.
coagulate v. (-ting) 1 change from a fluid to a semisolid. 2 clot, curdle. coagulant n. coagulation n. [Latin coagulum rennet]
coal n. 1 hard black rock, mainly carbonized plant matter, found underground and used as a fuel. 2 piece of this, esp. one that is burning. coals to Newcastle something brought to a place where it is already plentiful. haul (or call) over the coals reprimand. [Old English]
coalesce v. (-cing) come together and form a whole. coalescence n. coalescent adj. [Latin alo nourish]
coalface n. exposed working surface of coal in a mine.
coalfield n. extensive area yielding coal.
coal gas n. mixed gases formerly extracted from coal and used for lighting and heating.
coalition n. 1 temporary alliance, esp. of political parties. 2 fusion into one whole. [medieval Latin: related to *coalesce]
coalman n. man who carries or delivers coal.
coalmine n. mine in which coal is dug. coalminer n.
coal-scuttle n. container for coal for a domestic fire.
coal tar n. thick black oily liquid distilled from coal and used as a source of benzene.
coal-tit n. small greyish bird with a black head.
coaming n. raised border round a ship's hatches etc. to keep out water. [origin unknown]
coarse adj. 1 rough or loose in texture; made of large particles. 2 lacking refinement; crude, obscene. coarsely adv. coarseness n. [origin unknown]
coarse fish n. freshwater fish other than salmon and trout.
coarsen v. make or become coarse.
coast -n. border of land near the sea; seashore. -v. 1 ride or move, usu. downhill, without the use of power. 2 make progress without much effort. 3 sail along the coast. the coast is clear there is no danger of being observed or caught. coastal adj. [Latin costa side]
coaster n. 1 ship that travels along the coast. 2 small tray or mat for a bottle or glass.
coastguard n. 1 member of a group of people employed to keep watch on coasts to save life, prevent smuggling, etc. 2 such a group.
coastline n. line of the seashore, esp. with regard to its shape.
coat -n. 1 outer garment with sleeves, usu. extending below the hips; overcoat or jacket. 2 animal's fur or hair. 3 covering of paint etc. laid on a surface at one time. -v. 1 (usu. foll. by with, in) cover with a coat or layer. 2 (of paint etc.) form a covering to. [French from Germanic]
coat-hanger see *hanger 2.
coating n. 1 layer of paint etc. 2 material for coats.
coat of arms n. heraldic bearings or shield of a person, family, or corporation.
coat of mail n. jacket covered with mail.
coat-tail n. each of the flaps formed by the back of a tailcoat.
coax v. 1 persuade gradually or by flattery. 2 (foll. by out of) obtain (a thing from a person) thus. 3 manipulate (a thing) carefully or slowly. [obsolete cokes a fool]
coaxial adj. 1 having a common axis. 2 Electr. (of a cable or line) transmitting by means of two concentric conductors separated by an insulator.
cob n. 1 roundish lump. 2 domed loaf. 3 = *corn-cob. 4 large hazelnut. 5 sturdy riding-horse with short legs. 6 male swan. [origin unknown]
cobalt n. 1 silvery-white metallic element. 2 a pigment made from this. b its deep-blue colour. [German, probably = kobold demon in mines]
cobber n. Austral. & NZ colloq. companion, friend. [origin uncertain]
cobble1 -n. (in full cobblestone) small rounded stone used for paving. -v. (-ling) pave with cobbles. [from *cob]
cobble2 v. (-ling) 1 mend or patch up (esp. shoes). 2 (often foll. by together) join or assemble roughly. [from *cobbler]
cobbler n. 1 person who mends shoes professionally. 2 stewed fruit topped with scones. 3 (in pl.) slang nonsense. [origin unknown]
COBOL n. computer language for use in commerce. [common business oriented language]
cobra n. venomous hooded snake of Africa and Asia. [Latin colubra snake]
cobweb n. 1 fine network spun by a spider from liquid it secretes. 2 thread of this. cobwebby adj. [obsolete coppe spider]
coca n. 1 S. American shrub. 2 its dried leaves, chewed as a stimulant. [Spanish from Quechua]
cocaine n. drug from coca, used as a local anaesthetic and as a stimulant.
coccyx n. (pl. coccyges) small triangular bone at the base of the spinal column. [Greek, = cuckoo (from shape of its bill)]
cochineal n. 1 scarlet dye used esp. for colouring food. 2 insects whose dried bodies yield this. [Latin coccinus scarlet, from Greek]
cock1 -n. 1 male bird, esp. of the domestic fowl. 2 slang (as a form of address) friend; fellow. 3 coarse slang penis. 4 slang nonsense. 5 a firing lever in a gun, raised to be released by the trigger. b cocked position of this. 6 tap or valve controlling flow. -v. 1 raise or make upright or erect. 2 turn or move (the eye or ear) attentively or knowingly. 3 set aslant; turn up the brim of (a hat). 4 raise the cock of (a gun). at half cock only partly ready. cock a snook see *snook. cock up slang bungle; make a mess of. [Old English and French]
cock2 n. conical heap of hay or straw. [perhaps from Scandinavian]
cockade n. rosette etc. worn in the hat as a badge. [French: related to *cock1]
cock-a-doodle-doo n. cock's crow.
cock-a-hoop adj. exultant.
cock-a-leekie n. Scottish soup of boiling fowl and leeks.
cock-and-bull story n. absurd or incredible account.
cockatoo n. crested parrot. [Dutch from Malay]
cockchafer n. large pale-brown beetle. [from *cock1]
cock crow n. dawn.
cocker n. (in full cocker spaniel) small spaniel with a silky coat. [related to *cock1]
cockerel n. young cock. [diminutive of *cock1]
cock-eyed adj. colloq. 1 crooked, askew. 2 absurd, not practical. [from *cock1]
cock-fight n. fight between cocks as sport.
cockle n. 1 a edible bivalve shellfish. b its shell. 2 (in full cockle-shell) small shallow boat. 3 pucker or wrinkle in paper, glass, etc. warm the cockles of one's heart make one contented. [French coquille from Greek: related to *conch]
cockney -n. (pl. -s) 1 native of London, esp. of the East End. 2 dialect or accent used there. -adj. of cockneys or their dialect. [cokeney 'cock's egg']
cockpit n. 1 a compartment for the pilot (and crew) of an aircraft or spacecraft. b driver's seat in a racing car. c space for the helmsman in some yachts. 2 arena of war or other conflict. 3 place for cock-fights.
cockroach n. flat dark-brown beetle-like insect infesting kitchens, bathrooms, etc. [Spanish cucaracha]
cockscomb n. crest of a cock.
cocksure adj. arrogantly confident. [from *cock1]
cocktail n. 1 drink made of various spirits, fruit juices, etc. 2 appetizer containing shellfish or fruit. 3 any hybrid mixture. [origin unknown]
cocktail dress n. short evening dress worn at a drinks party.
cocktail stick n. small pointed stick for serving an olive, cherry, etc.
cock-up n. slang muddle or mistake.
cocky adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. conceited, arrogant. cockily adv. cockiness n. [from *cock1]
coco n. (pl. -s) coconut palm. [Portuguese and Spanish, = grimace]
cocoa n. 1 powder made from crushed cacao seeds, often with other ingredients. 2 drink made from this. [altered from *cacao]
cocoa bean n. cacao seed.
cocoa butter n. fatty substance obtained from the cocoa bean.
coconut n. large brown seed of the coco, with a hard shell and edible white lining enclosing milky juice.
coconut matting n. matting made of fibre from coconut husks.
coconut shy n. fairground sideshow where balls are thrown to dislodge coconuts.
cocoon -n. 1 silky case spun by insect larvae for protection as pupae. 2 protective covering. -v. wrap or coat in a cocoon. [Provençal coca shell]
cocotte n. small fireproof dish for cooking and serving an individual portion. [French]
COD abbr. cash (US collect) on delivery.
cod1 n. (pl. same) large sea fish. [origin unknown]
cod2 slang -n. 1 parody. 2 hoax. -v. (-dd-) 1 perform a hoax. 2 parody. [origin unknown]
cod3 n. slang nonsense. [abbreviation of *codswallop]
coda n. 1 Mus. final additional passage of a piece or movement. 2 concluding section of a ballet. [Latin cauda tail]
coddle v. (-ling) 1 treat as an invalid; protect attentively; pamper. 2 cook (an egg) in water below boiling point. coddler n. [a dialect form of caudle invalids' gruel]
code -n. 1 system of words, letters, symbols, etc., used to represent others for secrecy or brevity. 2 system of prearranged signals used to ensure secrecy in transmitting messages. 3 Computing piece of program text. 4 systematic set of laws etc. 5 prevailing standard of moral behaviour. -v. (-ding) put into code. [Latin *codex]
codeine n. alkaloid derived from morphine, used to relieve pain. [Greek kodeia poppy-head]
codependency n. addiction to a supportive role in a relationship. codependent adj. & n.
codex n. (pl. codices) 1 ancient manuscript text in book form. 2 collection of descriptions of drugs etc. [Latin, = tablet, book]
codfish n. (pl. same) = *cod1.
codger n. (usu. in old codger) colloq. person, esp. a strange one. [origin uncertain]
codicil n. addition to a will. [Latin diminutive of *codex]
codify v. (-ies, -ied) arrange (laws etc.) systematically into a code. codification n. codifier n.
codling1 n. (also codlin) 1 a kind of cooking apple. 2 moth whose larva feeds on apples. [Anglo-French quer de lion lion-heart]
codling2 n. small codfish.
cod-liver oil n. oil from cod livers, rich in vitamins D and A.
codpiece n. hist. bag or flap at the front of a man's breeches. [cod scrotum]
codswallop n. slang nonsense. [origin unknown]
coed colloq. -n. 1 school for both sexes. 2 esp. US female pupil of a coed school. -adj. coeducational. [abbreviation]
coeducation n. education of pupils of both sexes together. coeducational adj.
coefficient n. 1 Math. quantity placed before and multiplying an algebraic expression. 2 Physics multiplier or factor by which a property is measured (coefficient of expansion). [related to *co-, *efficient]
coelacanth n. large sea fish formerly thought to be extinct. [Greek koilos hollow, akantha spine]
coelenterate n. marine animal with a simple tube-shaped or cup-shaped body, e.g. jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones. [Greek koilos hollow, enteron intestine]
coeliac disease n. disease of the small intestine, brought on by contact with dietary gluten. [Latin coeliacus from Greek koilia belly]
coenobite n. (US cenobite) member of a monastic community. [Greek koinos bios common life]
coequal adj. & n. archaic or literary equal.
coerce v. (-cing) persuade or restrain by force. coercible adj. coercion n. coercive adj. [Latin coerceo restrain]
coeval formal -adj. of the same age; existing at the same time; contemporary. -n. coeval person or thing. coevally adv. [Latin aevum age]
coexist v. (often foll. by with) 1 exist together. 2 (esp. of nations) exist in mutual tolerance of each other's ideologies etc. coexistence n. coexistent adj.
coextensive adj. extending over the same space or time.
C. of E. abbr. Church of England.
coffee n. 1 a drink made from roasted and ground beanlike seeds of a tropical shrub. b cup of this. 2 a the shrub. b its seeds. 3 pale brown. [Turkish from Arabic]
coffee bar n. bar or café serving coffee and light refreshments from a counter.
coffee-mill n. small machine for grinding roasted coffee beans.
coffee morning n. morning gathering, esp. for charity, at which coffee is served.
coffee shop n. small informal restaurant, esp. in a hotel or department store.
coffee-table n. small low table.
coffee-table book n. large lavishly illustrated book.
coffer n. 1 large strong box for valuables. 2 (in pl.) treasury, funds. 3 sunken panel in a ceiling etc. [Latin cophinus basket]
coffer-dam n. watertight enclosure pumped dry to permit work below the waterline, e.g. building bridges etc. or repairing a ship.
coffin n. box in which a corpse is buried or cremated. [Latin: related to *coffer]
cog n. 1 each of a series of projections on the edge of a wheel or bar transferring motion by engaging with another series. 2 unimportant member of an organization etc. [probably Scandinavian]
cogent adj. (of an argument etc.) convincing, compelling. cogency n. cogently adv. [Latin cogo drive]
cogitate v. (-ting) ponder, meditate. cogitation n. cogitative adj. [Latin cogito]
cognac n. high-quality brandy, properly that distilled in Cognac in W. France.
cognate -adj. 1 related to or descended from a common ancestor. 2 (of a word) having the same linguistic family or derivation. -n. 1 relative. 2 cognate word. [Latin cognatus]
cognate object n. Gram. object related in origin and sense to its verb (as in live a good life).
cognition n. 1 knowing, perceiving, or conceiving as an act or faculty distinct from emotion and volition. 2 result of this. cognitional adj. cognitive adj. [Latin cognitio: related to *cognizance]
cognizance n. formal 1 knowledge or awareness; perception. 2 sphere of observation or concern. 3 Heraldry distinctive device or mark. [Latin cognosco get to know]
cognizant adj. (foll. by of) formal having knowledge or being aware of.
cognomen n. 1 nickname. 2 ancient Roman's third or fourth name designating a branch of a family, as in Marcus Tullius Cicero, or as an epithet, as in P. Cornelius Scipio Africanus. [Latin]
cognoscente n. (pl. -ti) connoisseur. [Italian]
cog-wheel n. wheel with cogs.
cohabit v. (-t-) (esp. of an unmarried couple) live together as husband and wife. cohabitation n. cohabitee n. [Latin habito dwell]
cohere v. (-ring) 1 (of parts or a whole) stick together, remain united. 2 (of reasoning etc.) be logical or consistent. [Latin haereo haes- stick]
coherent adj. 1 intelligible and articulate. 2 (of an argument etc.) consistent; easily followed. 3 cohering. 4 Physics (of waves) having a constant phase relationship. coherence n. coherently adv.
cohesion n. 1 a sticking together. b tendency to cohere. 2 Chem. force with which molecules cohere. cohesive adj.
cohort n. 1 ancient Roman military unit, one-tenth of a legion. 2 band of warriors. 3 a persons banded together. b group of persons with a common statistical characteristic. [Latin]
coif n. hist. close-fitting cap. [Latin cofia helmet]
coiff v. (usu. as coiffed adj.) dress or arrange (the hair). [French coiffer]
coiffeur n. (fem. coiffeuse) hairdresser. [French]
coiffure n. hairstyle. [French]
coil -v. 1 arrange or be arranged in spirals or concentric rings. 2 move sinuously. -n. 1 coiled arrangement. 2 coiled length of rope etc. 3 single turn of something coiled. 4 flexible loop as a contraceptive device in the womb. 5 coiled wire for the passage of an electric current and acting as an inductor. [Latin: related to *collect1]
coin -n. 1 stamped disc of metal as official money. 2 (collect.) metal money. -v. 1 make (coins) by stamping. 2 make (metal) into coins. 3 invent (esp. a new word or phrase). coin money make much money quickly. [Latin cuneus wedge]
coinage n. 1 coining. 2 a coins. b system of coins in use. 3 invention, esp. of a word.
coin-box n. 1 telephone operated by inserting coins. 2 receptacle for these.
coincide v. (-ding) 1 occur at the same time. 2 occupy the same portion of space. 3 (often foll. by with) agree or be identical. [Latin: related to *incident]
coincidence n. 1 coinciding. 2 remarkable concurrence of events etc. apparently by chance. coincident adj.
coincidental adj. in the nature of or resulting from a coincidence. coincidentally adv.
coir n. coconut fibre used for ropes, matting, etc. [Malayalam kayar cord]
coition n. = *coitus. [Latin coitio from eo go]
coitus n. sexual intercourse. coital adj. [Latin: related to *coition]
coitus interruptus n. sexual intercourse with withdrawal of the penis before ejaculation.
coke1 -n. solid substance left after gases have been extracted from coal. -v. (-king) convert (coal) into coke. [dial. colk core]
coke2 n. slang cocaine. [abbreviation]
Col. abbr. Colonel.
col n. depression in a chain of mountains. [Latin collum neck]
col. abbr. column.
col- see *com-.
cola n. (also kola) 1 W. African tree bearing seeds containing caffeine. 2 carbonated drink usu. flavoured with these. [West African]
colander n. perforated vessel used to strain off liquid in cookery. [Latin colo strain]
cold -adj. 1 of or at a low temperature. 2 not heated; cooled after heat. 3 feeling cold. 4 lacking ardour, friendliness, or affection. 5 a depressing, uninteresting. b (of colour) suggestive of cold. 6 a dead. b colloq. unconscious. 7 (of a scent in hunting) grown faint. 8 (in games) far from finding what is sought. -n. 1 a prevalence of low temperature. b cold weather or environment. 2 infection of the nose or throat with sneezing, catarrh, etc. -adv. unrehearsed. in cold blood without emotion, deliberately. out in the cold ignored, neglected. throw (or pour) cold water on be discouraging about. coldly adv. coldness n. [Old English]
cold-blooded adj. 1 having a body temperature varying with that of the environment. 2 callous; deliberately cruel. cold-bloodedly adv. cold-bloodedness n.
cold call -n. marketing call on a person who has previously not shown interest in the product. -v. visit or telephone (a person) in this way.
cold chisel n. chisel for cutting metal, stone, or brick.
cold comfort n. poor consolation.
cold cream n. ointment for cleansing and softening the skin.
cold feet n.pl. colloq. loss of nerve.
cold frame n. unheated glass-topped frame for growing small plants.
cold fusion n. nuclear fusion at room temperature, esp. as a possible energy source.
cold-hearted adj. lacking sympathy or kindness. cold-heartedly adv. cold-heartedness n.
cold shoulder -n. (prec. by the) intentional unfriendliness. -v. (cold-shoulder) be deliberately unfriendly towards.
cold sore n. inflammation and blisters in and around the mouth, caused by a virus infection.
cold storage n. 1 storage in a refrigerator. 2 temporary putting aside (of an idea etc.), postponement.
cold sweat n. sweating induced by fear or illness.
cold table n. selection of dishes of cold food.
cold turkey n. slang abrupt withdrawal from addictive drugs.
cold war n. hostility between nations without actual fighting.
cole n. (usu. in comb.) cabbage. [Latin caulis]
coleopteron n. insect with front wings serving as sheaths, e.g. the beetle and weevil. coleopterous adj. [Greek koleon sheath, pteron wing]
coleslaw n. dressed salad of sliced raw cabbage etc. [from *cole, Dutch sla salad]
coleus n. plant with variegated leaves. [Greek koleon sheath]
coley n. (pl. -s) any of several fish used as food, e.g. the rock-salmon. [origin uncertain]
colic n. severe spasmodic abdominal pain. colicky adj. [Latin: related to *colon2]
colitis n. inflammation of the lining of the colon.
collaborate v. (-ting) (often foll. by with) 1 work together. 2 cooperate with an enemy. collaboration n. collaborative adj. collaborator n. [Latin: related to *labour]
collage n. form or work of art in which various materials are fixed to a backing. [French, = gluing]
collagen n. protein found in animal connective tissue, yielding gelatin on boiling. [Greek kolla glue]
collapse -n. 1 falling down or in of a structure; folding up; giving way. 2 sudden failure of a plan etc. 3 physical or mental breakdown; exhaustion. -v. (-sing) 1 (cause to) undergo collapse. 2 colloq. lie or sit down and relax, esp. after prolonged effort. 3 fold up. collapsible adj. [Latin labor laps- slip]
collar -n. 1 neckband, upright or turned over. 2 band of leather etc. round an animal's neck. 3 band or ring or pipe in machinery. 4 piece of meat rolled up and tied. -v. 1 capture, seize. 2 colloq. accost. 3 slang appropriate. [Latin collum neck]
collar-bone n. bone joining the breastbone and shoulder-blade.
collate v. (-ting) 1 assemble and arrange systematically. 2 compare (texts, statements, etc.). collator n. [Latin: related to *confer]
collateral -n. 1 security pledged as a guarantee for the repayment of a loan. 2 person having the same ancestor as another but by a different line. -adj. 1 descended from the same ancestor but by a different line. 2 side by side; parallel. 3 a additional but subordinate. b contributory. c connected but aside from the main subject, course, etc. collaterally adv. [Latin: related to *lateral]
collation n. 1 collating. 2 thing collated. 3 light meal. [Latin: related to *confer]
colleague n. fellow worker, esp. in a profession or business. [Latin collega]
collect1 -v. 1 bring or come together; assemble, accumulate. 2 systematically seek and acquire, esp. as a hobby. 3 obtain (contributions etc.) from a number of people. 4 call for; fetch. 5 a refl. regain control of oneself. b concentrate (one's thoughts etc.). c (as collected adj.) not perturbed or distracted. -adj. & adv. US (of a telephone call, parcel, etc.) to be paid for by the receiver. [Latin lego lect- pick]
collect2 n. short prayer of the Anglican or Roman Catholic Church. [Latin collecta: related to *collect1]
collectable (also collectible) -adj. worth collecting. -n. item sought by collectors.
collection n. 1 collecting or being collected. 2 things collected, esp. systematically. 3 money collected, esp. at a meeting or church service.
collective -adj. of, by, or relating to a group or society as a whole; joint; shared. -n. 1 cooperative enterprise; its members. 2 = *collective noun. collectively adv.
collective -adj. of, by, or relating to a group or society as a whole; joint; shared. -n. 1 cooperative enterprise; its members. 2 = *collective noun. collectively adv.
collective bargaining n. negotiation of wages etc. by an organized body of employees.
collective farm n. jointly-operated esp. State-owned amalgamation of several smallholdings.
collective noun n. singular noun denoting a collection or number of individuals (e.g. assembly, family, troop).
collective ownership n. ownership of land etc., by all for the benefit of all.
collectivism n. theory and practice of collective ownership of land and the means of production. collectivist n. & adj.
collectivize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) organize on the basis of collective ownership. collectivization n.
collector n. 1 person who collects things of interest. 2 person who collects money etc. due.
collector's item n. (also collector's piece) thing of interest to collectors.
colleen n. Ir. girl. [Irish cailín]
college n. 1 establishment for further, higher, or professional education. 2 college premises (lived in college). 3 students and teachers in a college. 4 school. 5 organized body of persons with shared functions and privileges. [Latin: related to *colleague]
collegiate adj. 1 of, or constituted as, a college; corporate. 2 (of a university) consisting of different colleges.
collegiate church n. church endowed for a chapter of canons but without a bishop's see.
collide v. (-ding) (often foll. by with) come into collision or conflict. [Latin collido -lis- clash]
collie n. sheepdog of an orig. Scottish breed. [perhaps from coll *coal]
collier n. 1 coalminer. 2 a coal ship. b member of its crew. [from *coal]
colliery n. (pl. -ies) coalmine and its buildings.
collision n. 1 violent impact of a moving body with another or with a fixed object. 2 clashing of interests etc. [Latin: related to *collide]
collocate v. (-ting) juxtapose (a word etc.) with another. collocation n. [Latin: related to *locus]
colloid n. 1 substance consisting of ultramicroscopic particles. 2 mixture of such particles dispersed in another substance. colloidal adj. [Greek kolla glue]
colloquial adj. of ordinary or familiar conversation, informal. colloquially adv. [Latin: related to *colloquy]
colloquialism n. 1 colloquial word or phrase. 2 use of these.
colloquium n. (pl. -s or -quia) academic conference or seminar. [Latin: related to *colloquy]
colloquy n. (pl. -quies) literary conversation, talk. [Latin loquor speak]
collude v. (-ding) conspire together. collusion n. collusive adj. [Latin ludo lus- play]
collywobbles n.pl. colloq. 1 rumbling or pain in the stomach. 2 apprehensive feeling. [from *colic, *wobble]
cologne n. eau-de-Cologne or similar toilet water. [abbreviation]
colon1 n. punctuation mark (:), used esp. to mark illustration or antithesis. [Greek, = clause]
colon2 n. lower and greater part of the large intestine. [Latin from Greek]
colonel n. army officer in command of a regiment, ranking next below brigadier. colonelcy n. (pl. -ies). [Italian colonnello: related to *column]
colonial -adj. 1 of a colony or colonies. 2 of colonialism. -n. inhabitant of a colony.
colonialism n. 1 policy of acquiring or maintaining colonies. 2 derog. exploitation of colonies. colonialist n. & adj.
colonist n. settler in or inhabitant of a colony.
colonize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 establish a colony in. 2 join a colony. colonization n.
colonnade n. row of columns, esp. supporting an entablature or roof. colonnaded adj. [French: related to *column]
colony n. (pl. -ies) 1 a settlement or settlers in a new country, fully or partly subject to the mother country. b their territory. 2 a people of one nationality, occupation, etc., esp. forming a community in a city. b separate or segregated group (nudist colony). 3 group of animals, plants, etc., living close together. [Latin colonia farm]
colophon n. 1 publisher's imprint, esp. on the title-page. 2 tailpiece in a manuscript or book, giving the writer's or printer's name, date, etc. [Greek, = summit]
color (Brit. colour) -n. 1 sensation produced on the eye by rays of light when resolved as by a prism into different wavelengths. 2 one, or any mixture, of the constituents into which light can be separated as in a spectrum or rainbow, sometimes including (loosely) black and white. 3 colouring substance, esp. paint. 4 use of all colours in photography etc. 5 a pigmentation of the skin, esp. when dark. b this as ground for discrimination. 6 ruddiness of complexion. 7 (in pl.) appearance or aspect (saw them in their true colours). 8 (in pl.) a coloured ribbon or uniform etc. worn to signify membership of a school, club, team, etc. b flag of a regiment or ship. 9 quality, mood, or variety in music, literature, etc. 10 show of reason; pretext (lend colour to; under colour of). -v. 1 apply colour to, esp. by painting, dyeing, etc. 2 influence. 3 misrepresent, exaggerate. 4 take on colour; blush. show one's true colours reveal one's true character or intentions. [Latin color]
Colorado beetle n. yellow and black beetle, with larva destructive to the potato plant. [Colorado in US]
coloration n. (also colouration) 1 appearance as regards colour. 2 act or mode of colouring. [Latin: related to *colour]
coloratura n. 1 elaborate ornamentation of a vocal melody. 2 soprano skilled in this. [Italian: related to *colour]
colored (Brit. coloured) -adj. 1 having colour. 2 (Coloured) often offens. a wholly or partly of non-White descent. b S.Afr. of mixed descent. -n. 1 (Coloured) often offens. a Coloured person. b S.Afr. person of mixed descent. 2 (in pl.) coloured clothing etc. for washing.
colorful adj. (Brit. colour-) 1 full of colour; bright. 2 full of interest; vivid. colourfully adv.
coloring n. (Brit. colour-) 1 appearance as regards colour, esp. facial complexion. 2 use or application of colour. 3 substance giving colour.
colorless adj. (Brit. colour-) 1 without colour. 2 lacking character or interest.
colossal adj. 1 huge. 2 colloq. splendid. colossally adv. [related to *colossus]
colossus n. (pl. -ssi or -ssuses) 1 statue much bigger than life size. 2 gigantic or remarkable person etc. 3 imperial power personified. [Latin from Greek]
colostomy n. (pl. -ies) operation on the colon to make an opening in the abdominal wall to provide an artificial anus. [from *colon2]
colour (US color) -n. 1 sensation produced on the eye by rays of light when resolved as by a prism into different wavelengths. 2 one, or any mixture, of the constituents into which light can be separated as in a spectrum or rainbow, sometimes including (loosely) black and white. 3 colouring substance, esp. paint. 4 use of all colours in photography etc. 5 a pigmentation of the skin, esp. when dark. b this as ground for discrimination. 6 ruddiness of complexion. 7 (in pl.) appearance or aspect (saw them in their true colours). 8 (in pl.) a coloured ribbon or uniform etc. worn to signify membership of a school, club, team, etc. b flag of a regiment or ship. 9 quality, mood, or variety in music, literature, etc. 10 show of reason; pretext (lend colour to; under colour of). -v. 1 apply colour to, esp. by painting, dyeing, etc. 2 influence. 3 misrepresent, exaggerate. 4 take on colour; blush. show one's true colours reveal one's true character or intentions. [Latin color]
colouration var. of *coloration.
colour bar n. racial discrimination against non-White people.
colour-blind adj. unable to distinguish certain colours. colour-blindness n.
colour code -n. use of colours as a means of identification. -v. (colour-code) identify by means of a colour code.
coloured (US colored) -adj. 1 having colour. 2 (Coloured) often offens. a wholly or partly of non-White descent. b S.Afr. of mixed descent. -n. 1 (Coloured) often offens. a Coloured person. b S.Afr. person of mixed descent. 2 (in pl.) coloured clothing etc. for washing.
colourful adj. (US color-) 1 full of colour; bright. 2 full of interest; vivid. colourfully adv.
colouring n. (US color-) 1 appearance as regards colour, esp. facial complexion. 2 use or application of colour. 3 substance giving colour.
colourless adj. (US color-) 1 without colour. 2 lacking character or interest.
colour scheme n. arrangement of colours, esp. in interior design.
colour-sergeant n. senior sergeant of an infantry company.
colour supplement n. magazine with colour printing, as a supplement to a newspaper.
colposcopy n. examination of the vagina and neck of the womb. colposcope n. [Greek kolpos womb]
colt n. 1 young male horse. 2 Sport inexperienced player. coltish adj. [Old English]
colter n. (Brit. coulter) vertical blade in front of a ploughshare. [Latin culter knife]
coltsfoot n. (pl. -s) wild plant with large leaves and yellow flowers.
columbine n. garden plant with purple-blue flowers like a cluster of doves. [Latin columba dove]
column n. 1 pillar, usu. of circular section and with a base and capital. 2 column-shaped object. 3 vertical cylindrical mass of liquid or vapour. 4 vertical division of a printed page. 5 part of a newspaper etc. regularly devoted to a particular subject. 6 vertical row of figures in accounts etc. 7 narrow-fronted arrangement of troops or armoured vehicles in successive lines. columnar adj. columned adj. [French and Latin]
columnist n. journalist contributing regularly to a newspaper etc.
com- prefix (also co-, col-, con-, cor-) with, together, jointly, altogether. [Latin com-, cum with]
Usage Com- is used before b, m, p, and occasionally before vowels and f; co- esp. before vowels, h, and gn; col- before l, cor- before r, and con- before other consonants.
coma n. (pl. -s) prolonged deep unconsciousness. [Latin from Greek]
comatose adj. 1 in a coma. 2 drowsy, sleepy.
comb -n. 1 a toothed strip of rigid material for tidying the hair. b similar curved decorative strip worn in the hair. 2 thing like a comb, esp. a device for tidying and straightening wool etc. 3 red fleshy crest of a fowl, esp. a cock. 4 honeycomb. -v. 1 draw a comb through (the hair). 2 dress (wool etc.) with a comb. 3 colloq. search (a place) thoroughly. comb out 1 arrange (the hair) loosely by combing. 2 remove with a comb. 3 search out and get rid of. [Old English]
combat -n. fight, struggle, contest. -v. (-t-) 1 engage in combat (with). 2 oppose; strive against. [Latin: related to *battle]
combatant -n. person engaged in fighting. -adj. 1 fighting. 2 for fighting.
combative adj. pugnacious.
combe var. of *coomb.
combination n. 1 combining or being combined. 2 combined set of things or people. 3 sequence of numbers or letters used to open a combination lock. 4 motor cycle with a side-car attached. 5 (in pl.) single undergarment for the body and legs. [Latin: related to *combine]
combination lock n. lock that can be opened only by a specific sequence of movements.
combine -v. (-ning) 1 join together; unite for a common purpose. 2 possess (qualities usually distinct) together. 3 form or cause to form a chemical compound. 4 harvest with a combine harvester. -n. 1 combination of esp. commercial interests. 2 (in full combine harvester) machine that reaps and threshes in one operation. [Latin bini a pair]
combings n.pl. hairs combed off.
combining form n. linguistic element used in combination with another to form a word (e.g. Anglo- = English).
combo n. (pl. -s) slang small jazz or dance band. [abbreviation of *combination]
combustible -adj. capable of or used for burning. -n. combustible substance. combustibility n. [Latin comburo -bust- burn up]
combustion n. 1 burning. 2 development of light and heat from the chemical combination of a substance with oxygen.
come -v. (-ming; past came; past part. come) 1 move, be brought towards, or reach a place. 2 reach a specified situation or result (came to no harm). 3 reach or extend to a specified point. 4 traverse or accomplish (with compl.: have come a long way). 5 occur, happen; (of time) arrive in due course (how did you come to break your leg?; the day soon came). 6 take or occupy a specified position in space or time (Nero came after Claudius). 7 become perceptible or known (it will come to me). 8 be available (comes in three sizes). 9 become (come loose). 10 (foll. by from, of) a be descended from. b be the result of (that comes of complaining). 11 colloq. play the part of; behave like (don't come the bully with me). 12 slang have an orgasm. 13 (in subjunctive) colloq. when a specified time is reached (come next month). 14 (as int.) expressing mild protest or encouragement (come, it cannot be that bad). -n. slang semen ejaculated. come about happen. come across 1 meet or find by chance. 2 colloq. be effective or understood; give a specified impression. come again colloq. 1 make a further effort. 2 (as imper.) what did you say? come along 1 make progress. 2 (as imper.) hurry up. come apart disintegrate. come at 1 attack. 2 reach, get access to. come away 1 become detached. 2 (foll. by with) be left with (an impression etc.). come back 1 return. 2 recur to one's memory. 3 (often foll. by in) become fashionable or popular again. come between 1 interfere with the relationship of. 2 separate. come by 1 call on a visit. 2 obtain. come clean see *clean. come down 1 lose position or wealth. 2 be handed down by tradition. 3 be reduced. 4 (foll. by against, in favour of) reach a decision. 5 (foll. by to) amount basically. 6 (foll. by on) criticize harshly; rebuke, punish. 7 (foll. by with) begin to suffer from (a disease). come for 1 come to collect. 2 attack. come forward 1 advance. 2 offer oneself for a task, post, etc. come in 1 enter. 2 take a specified position in a race etc. (came in third). 3 become fashionable or seasonable. 4 (with compl.) prove to be (useful etc.) (came in handy). 5 have a part to play (where do I come in?). 6 be received (news has just come in). 7 begin speaking, interrupt. 8 return to base (come in, number 9). 9 (foll. by for) receive. come into 1 enter, be brought into (collision, prominence, etc.). 2 receive, esp. as an heir. come of age see *age. come off 1 (of an action) succeed, occur. 2 fare (badly, well, etc.). 3 be detached or detachable (from). come off it colloq. expression of disbelief, disapproval, etc. come on 1 advance. 2 make progress. 3 begin (came on to rain). 4 appear on a stage, field of play, etc. 5 (as imper.) expressing encouragement or disbelief. 6 = come upon. come out 1 emerge; become known. 2 be published. 3 a declare oneself. b openly declare that one is a homosexual. 4 go on strike. 5 (of a photograph or thing photographed) be produced satisfactorily and clearly. 6 attain a specified result in an examination etc. 7 (of a stain etc.) be removed. 8 make one's début in society etc. 9 (foll. by in) become covered with (came out in spots). 10 be solved. 11 (foll. by with) declare openly; disclose. come over 1 a come from some distance to visit etc. b come nearer. 2 change sides or one's opinion. 3 a (of a feeling etc.) overtake or affect (a person). b colloq. feel suddenly (came over faint). 4 appear or sound in a specified way. come round 1 pay an informal visit. 2 recover consciousness. 3 be converted to another person's opinion. 4 (of a date) recur. come through survive. come to 1 recover consciousness. 2 amount to. come to one's senses see *sense. come up 1 arise; present itself; be mentioned or discussed. 2 attain position or wealth. 3 (often foll. by to) approach. 4 (foll. by to) match (a standard etc.). 5 (foll. by with) produce (an idea etc.). 6 (of a plant etc.) spring up out of the ground. 7 become brighter (e.g. with polishing). come up against be faced with or opposed by.
comeback n. 1 return to a previous (esp. successful) state. 2 slang retaliation or retort.
Comecon n. economic association of Socialist countries in E. Europe. [abbreviation of Council for Mutual Economic Assistance]
comedian n. 1 humorous entertainer. 2 comedy actor. 3 slang buffoon. [French]
comedienne n. female comedian. [French feminine]
comedown n. 1 loss of status. 2 disappointment.
comedy n. (pl. -ies) 1 a play, film, etc., of amusing character, usu. with a happy ending. b such works as a dramatic genre. 2 humour; amusing aspects. comedic adj. [Greek: related to *comic]
comedy of manners n. satirical play portraying the social behaviour of the upper classes.
come-hither attrib. adj. colloq. flirtatious, inviting.
comely adj. (-ier, -iest) literary handsome, good-looking. comeliness n. [Old English]
come-on n. slang enticement.
comer n. person who comes as an applicant etc. (offered it to the first comer).
comestibles n.pl. formal or joc. food. [French from Latin]
comet n. hazy object moving in a path about the sun, usu. with a nucleus of ice surrounded by gas and with a tail pointing away from the sun. [Greek kometes]
comeuppance n. colloq. deserved punishment. [come up, *-ance]
comfit n. archaic sweet consisting of a nut etc. in sugar. [Latin: related to *confection]
comfort -n. 1 a state of physical well-being. b (usu. in pl.) things that make life easy or pleasant. 2 relief of suffering or grief, consolation. 3 person or thing giving consolation. -v. soothe in grief; console. [Latin fortis strong]
comfortable adj. 1 giving ease. 2 free from discomfort; at ease. 3 having an easy conscience. 4 a having an adequate standard of living; free from financial worry. b sufficient (comfortable income). 5 a with a wide margin (comfortable win). b appreciable (comfortable margin). comfortably adv.
comforter n. 1 person who comforts. 2 baby's dummy. 3 archaic woollen scarf.
comfortless adj. 1 dreary, cheerless. 2 without comfort.
comfort station n. US euphem. public lavatory.
comfrey n. (pl. -s) tall bell-flowered plant growing in damp, shady places. [French from Latin]
comfy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. comfortable. [abbreviation]
comic -adj. 1 of or like comedy. 2 funny. -n. 1 comedian. 2 periodical in the form of comic strips. comical adj. comically adv. [Greek komos revel]
comic strip n. sequence of drawings telling a story.
coming -attrib. adj. 1 approaching, next (the coming week). 2 of potential importance (coming man). -n. arrival.
comity n. (pl. -ies) formal 1 courtesy, friendship. 2 a association of nations etc. b (in full comity of nations) mutual recognition by nations of the laws and customs of others. [Latin comis courteous]
comma n. punctuation mark (,) indicating a pause or break between parts of a sentence etc. [Greek, = clause]
command -v. 1 (often foll. by to + infin., or that + clause) give a formal order or instruction to. 2 (also absol.) have authority or control over. 3 have at one's disposal or within reach (a skill, resources, etc.). 4 deserve and get (sympathy, respect, etc.). 5 dominate (a strategic position) from a superior height; look down over. -n. 1 order, instruction. 2 mastery, control, possession. 3 exercise or tenure of authority, esp. naval or military. 4 a body of troops etc. b district under a commander. [Latin: related to *mandate]
commandant n. commanding officer, esp. of a military academy. [French or Italian or Spanish: related to *command]
commandeer v. 1 seize (esp. goods) for military use. 2 take arbitrary possession of. [Afrikaans kommanderen]
commander n. 1 person who commands, esp. a naval officer next below captain. 2 (in full knight commander) member of a higher class in some orders of knighthood.
commander-in-chief n. (pl. commanders-in-chief) supreme commander, esp. of a nation's forces.
commanding adj. 1 exalted, impressive. 2 (of a position) giving a wide view. 3 (of an advantage etc.) substantial (commanding lead).
commandment n. divine command.
command module n. control compartment in a spacecraft.
commando n. (pl. -s) 1 unit of shock troops. 2 member of this. [Portuguese: related to *command]
Command Paper n. paper laid before Parliament by royal command.
command performance n. theatrical or film performance given at royal request.
commemorate v. (-ting) 1 preserve in memory by a celebration or ceremony. 2 be a memorial of. commemoration n. commemorative adj. [Latin: related to *memory]
commence v. (-cing) formal begin. [Latin: related to *com-, *initiate]
commencement n. formal beginning.
commend v. 1 praise. 2 entrust, commit. 3 recommend. commendation n. [Latin: related to *mandate]
commendable adj. praiseworthy. commendably adv.
commensurable adj. 1 (often foll. by with, to) measurable by the same standard. 2 (foll. by to) proportionate to. 3 Math. (of numbers) in a ratio equal to the ratio of integers. commensurability n. [Latin: related to *measure]
commensurate adj. 1 (usu. foll. by with) coextensive. 2 (often foll. by to, with) proportionate.
comment -n. 1 brief critical or explanatory remark or note; opinion. 2 commenting; criticism (aroused much comment; his art is a comment on society). -v. (often foll. by on or that) make (esp. critical) remarks. no comment colloq. I decline to answer your question. [Latin]
commentary n. (pl. -ies) 1 descriptive spoken esp. broadcast account of an event or performance as it happens. 2 set of explanatory notes on a text etc. [Latin]
commentate v. (-ting) act as a commentator.
commentator n. 1 person who provides a commentary. 2 person who comments on current events. [Latin]
commerce n. financial transactions, esp. buying and selling; trading. [Latin: related to *mercer]
commercial -adj. 1 of or engaged in commerce. 2 having financial profit as its primary aim. 3 (of chemicals) for industrial use. -n. television or radio advertisement. commercially adv.
commercial broadcasting n. broadcasting financed by advertising.
commercialism n. 1 commercial practices. 2 emphasis on financial profit.
commercialize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 exploit or spoil for profit. 2 make commercial. commercialization n.
commercial traveller n. firm's representative visiting shops etc. to get orders.
Commie n. slang derog. Communist. [abbreviation]
commination n. literary threatening of divine vengeance. comminatory adj. [Latin: related to *menace]
commingle v. (-ling) literary mingle together.
comminute v. (-ting) 1 reduce to small fragments. 2 divide (property) into small portions. comminution n. [Latin: related to *minute2]
comminuted fracture n. fracture producing multiple bone splinters.
commiserate v. (-ting) (usu. foll. by with) express or feel sympathy. commiseration n. [Latin: related to *miser]
commissar n. hist. 1 official of the Soviet Communist Party responsible for political education and organization. 2 head of a government department in the USSR. [Latin: related to *commit]
commissariat n. 1 esp. Mil. a department for the supply of food etc. b food supplied. 2 hist. government department of the USSR. [related to *commissary]
commissary n. (pl. -ies) 1 deputy, delegate. 2 US Mil. store for supplies of food etc. [Latin: related to *commit]
commission -n. 1 a authority to perform a task etc. b person(s) entrusted with such authority. c task etc. given to such person(s). 2 order for something to be produced specially. 3 a warrant conferring the rank of officer in the armed forces. b rank so conferred. 4 pay or percentage paid to an agent. 5 act of committing (a crime etc.). -v. 1 empower by commission. 2 a give (an artist etc.) a commission for a piece of work. b order (a work) to be written etc. 3 a give (an officer) command of a ship. b prepare (a ship) for active service. 4 bring (a machine etc.) into operation. in (or out of) commission ready (or not ready) for service. [Latin: related to *commit]
commission-agent n. bookmaker.
commissionaire n. uniformed door-attendant. [French: related to *commissioner]
commissioner n. 1 person appointed by a commission to perform a specific task, e.g. the head of the London police etc. 2 member of a government commission. 3 representative of government in a district, department, etc. [medieval Latin: related to *commission]
Commissioner for Oaths n. solicitor authorized to administer an oath in an affidavit etc.
commit v. (-tt-) 1 do or make (a crime, blunder, etc.). 2 (usu. foll. by to) entrust or consign for safe keeping or treatment. 3 send (a person) to prison. 4 pledge or bind (esp. oneself) to a certain course or policy. 5 (as committed adj.) (often foll. by to) a dedicated. b obliged. commit to memory memorize. commit to paper write down. [Latin committo -miss-]
commitment n. 1 engagement or obligation. 2 committing or being committed. 3 dedication; committing oneself.
committal n. act of committing, esp. to prison.
committee n. 1 body of persons appointed for a special function by (and usu. out of) a larger body. 2 (Committee) House of Commons sitting as a committee. [from *commit, *-ee]
committee stage n. third of five stages of a bill's progress through Parliament.
commode n. 1 chamber-pot in a chair with a cover. 2 chest of drawers. [Latin commodus convenient]
commodious adj. roomy.
commodity n. (pl. -ies) article of trade, esp. a raw material or product as opposed to a service. [Latin: related to *commode]
commodore n. 1 naval officer above captain and below rear-admiral. 2 commander of a squadron or other division of a fleet. 3 president of a yacht-club. [French: related to *commander]
common -adj. (-er, -est) 1 a occurring often. b ordinary; without special rank or position. 2 a shared by, coming from, more than one (common knowledge). b belonging to the whole community; public. 3 derog. low-class; vulgar; inferior. 4 of the most familiar type (common cold). 5 Math. belonging to two or more quantities (common denominator). 6 Gram. (of gender) referring to individuals of either sex. -n. 1 piece of open public land. 2 slang = *common sense. in common 1 in joint use; shared. 2 of joint interest. in common with in the same way as. [Latin communis]
commonality n. (pl. -ies) 1 sharing of an attribute. 2 common occurrence. 3 = *commonalty. [var. of *commonalty]
commonalty n. (pl. -ies) 1 the common people. 2 the general body (esp. of mankind). [medieval Latin: related to *common]
commoner n. 1 one of the common people (below the rank of peer). 2 university student without a scholarship. [medieval Latin: related to *common]
common ground n. point or argument accepted by both sides in a dispute.
common law n. unwritten law based on custom and precedent.
common-law husband n. (also common-law wife) partner recognized by common law without formal marriage.
commonly adv. usually, frequently; ordinarily.
Common Market n. European Community.
common noun n. Gram. name denoting a class of objects or a concept, not a particular individual.
common or garden adj. colloq. ordinary.
commonplace -adj. lacking originality; trite; ordinary. -n. 1 event, topic, etc. that is ordinary or usual. 2 trite remark. [translation of Latin locus communis]
common-room n. room for the social use of students or teachers at a college etc.
commons n.pl. 1 (the Commons) = *House of Commons. 2 the common people.
common sense n. sound practical sense.
commonsensical adj. having or marked by common sense.
common time n. Mus. four crotchets in a bar.
commonwealth n. 1 independent State or community, esp. a democratic republic. 2 (the Commonwealth) a association of the UK with States that were previously part of the British Empire. b republican government of Britain 1649-60. 3 federation of States.
commotion n. confused and noisy disturbance, uproar. [Latin: related to *com-]
communal adj. 1 shared between members of a group or community; for common use. 2 (of conflict etc.) between esp. ethnic or religious communities. communally adv. [Latin: related to *commune1]
commune1 n. 1 group of people sharing accommodation, goods, etc. 2 small district of local government in France etc. [medieval Latin: related to *common]
commune2 v. (-ning) (usu. foll. by with) 1 speak intimately. 2 feel in close touch (with nature etc.). [French: related to *common]
communicable adj. (esp. of a disease) able to be passed on. [Latin: related to *communicate]
communicant n. 1 person who receives Holy Communion. 2 person who imparts information. [related to *communicate]
communicate v. (-ting) 1 impart, transmit (news, heat, motion, feelings, disease, ideas, etc.). 2 succeed in conveying information. 3 (often foll. by with) relate socially; have dealings. 4 be connected (they have communicating rooms). communicator n. communicatory adj. [Latin: related to *common]
communication n. 1 a communicating or being communicated. b information etc. communicated. c letter, message, etc. 2 connection or means of access. 3 social dealings. 4 (in pl.) science and practice of transmitting information.
communication cord n. cord or chain pulled to stop a train in an emergency.
communication(s) satellite n. artificial satellite used to relay telephone circuits or broadcast programmes.
communicative adj. ready to talk and impart information.
communion n. 1 sharing, esp. of thoughts etc.; fellowship. 2 participation; sharing in common (communion of interests). 3 (Communion or Holy Communion) Eucharist. 4 body or group within the Christian faith (the Methodist communion). [Latin: related to *common]
communiqué n. official communication, esp. a news report. [French, = communicated]
communism n. 1 a social system in which most property is publicly owned and each person works for the common benefit. b political theory advocating this. 2 (usu. Communism) the form of socialist society established in Cuba, China, etc., and previously, the USSR. [French: related to *common]
communist -n. 1 person advocating communism. 2 (usu. Communist) supporter of Communism or member of a Communist Party. -adj. 1 of or relating to communism. 2 (usu. Communist) of Communists or a Communist party. communistic adj.
Communist Party n. political party advocating communism or Communism.
community n. (pl. -ies) 1 body of people living in one place, district, or country. 2 body of people having religion, ethnic origin, profession, etc., in common. 3 fellowship (community of interest). 4 commune. 5 joint ownership or liability. [Latin: related to *common]
community centre n. place providing social facilities for a neighbourhood.
community charge n. tax levied locally on every adult.
Usage The community charge, or poll tax, replaced household rates in 1989-90 and is itself to be replaced by a council tax in 1993.
community home n. centre housing young offenders and other juveniles.
community service n. unpaid work in the community, esp. by an offender.
community singing n. singing by a large group, esp. of old popular songs or hymns.
community spirit n. feeling of belonging to a community, expressed in mutual support etc.
commute v. (-ting) 1 travel some distance to and from work. 2 (usu. foll. by to) change (a punishment) to one less severe. 3 (often foll. by into, for) change (one kind of payment or obligation) for another. 4 exchange. commutable adj. commutation n. [Latin muto change]
commuter n. person who commutes to and from work.
compact1 -adj. 1 closely or neatly packed together. 2 small and economically designed. 3 concise. 4 (of a person) small but well-proportioned. -v. make compact. -n. (in full powder compact) small flat case for face-powder. compactly adv. compactness n. [Latin pango fasten]
compact2 n. agreement, contract. [Latin: related to *pact]
compact disc n. disc on which information or sound is recorded digitally and reproduced by reflection of laser light.
companion n. 1 a person who accompanies or associates with another. b (foll. by in, of) partner, sharer. c person employed to live with and assist another. 2 handbook or reference book. 3 thing that matches another. 4 (Companion) member of some orders of knighthood. [Latin panis bread]
companionable adj. sociable, friendly. companionably adv.
companionship n. friendship; being together.
companion-way n. staircase from a ship's deck to the saloon or cabins.
company n. (pl. -ies) 1 a number of people assembled. b guest(s). 2 person's associate(s). 3 a commercial business. b partners in this. 4 actors etc. working together. 5 subdivision of an infantry battalion. 6 body of people combined for a common purpose (the ship's company). 7 being with another or others. in company with together with. keep a person company remain with a person to be sociable. part company (often foll. by with) cease to associate; separate; disagree. [French: related to *companion]
comparable adj. (often foll. by with, to) able or fit to be compared. comparability n. comparably adv. [Latin: related to *compare]
Usage Use of comparable with to and with corresponds to the senses of compare: to is more common.
comparative -adj. 1 perceptible or estimated by comparison; relative (in comparative comfort). 2 of or involving comparison (a comparative study). 3 Gram. (of an adjective or adverb) expressing a higher degree of a quality (e.g. braver, more quickly). -n. Gram. comparative expression or word. comparatively adv. [Latin: related to *compare]
compare -v. (-ring) 1 (usu. foll. by to) express similarities in; liken. 2 (often foll. by to, with) estimate the similarity of. 3 (often foll. by with) bear comparison. 4 Gram. form comparative and superlative degrees of (an adjective or adverb). -n. literary comparison (beyond compare). compare notes exchange ideas or opinions. [Latin compar equal]
Usage In current use, to and with are generally interchangeable, but with often implies a greater element of formal analysis.
comparison n. 1 comparing. 2 illustration or example of similarity. 3 capacity for being likened (there's no comparison). 4 (in full degrees of comparison) Gram. positive, comparative, and superlative forms of adjectives and adverbs. bear (or stand) comparison (often foll. by with) be able to be compared favourably. beyond comparison 1 totally different in quality. 2 greatly superior; excellent.
compartment n. 1 space within a larger space, separated by partitions. 2 watertight division of a ship. 3 area of activity etc. kept apart from others in a person's mind. [Latin: related to *part]
compartmental adj. of or divided into compartments or categories.
compartmental adj. of or divided into compartments or categories.
compartmentalize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) divide into compartments or categories.
compass n. 1 instrument showing the direction of magnetic north and bearings from it. 2 (usu. in pl.) instrument for taking measurements and describing circles, with two arms connected at one end by a hinge. 3 circumference or boundary. 4 area, extent; scope; range. [Latin passus pace]
compassion n. pity inclining one to help or be merciful. [Church Latin: related to *passion]
compassionate adj. showing compassion, sympathetic. compassionately adv.
compassionate leave n. leave granted on grounds of bereavement etc.
compatible adj. 1 a able to coexist; well-suited. b (often foll. by with) consistent. 2 (of equipment etc.) able to be used in combination. compatibility n. [medieval Latin: related to *passion]
compatriot n. fellow-countryman. [Latin compatriota]
compel v. (-ll-) 1 force, constrain. 2 arouse irresistibly (compels admiration). 3 (as compelling adj.) rousing strong interest, conviction, or admiration. compellingly adv. [Latin pello puls- drive]
compendious adj. comprehensive but brief. [Latin: related to *compendium]
compendium n. (pl. -s or -dia) 1 concise summary or abridgement. 2 collection of table-games etc. [Latin]
compensate v. (-ting) 1 a (often foll. by for) recompense (a person). b recompense (loss, damage, etc.). 2 (usu. foll. by for a thing) make amends. 3 counterbalance. 4 offset disability or frustration by development in another direction. compensatory adj. [Latin pendo pens- weigh]
compensation n. 1 compensating or being compensated. 2 money etc. given as recompense.
compère -n. person who introduces a variety show etc. -v. (-ring) act as compère (to). [French, = godfather]
compete v. (-ting) 1 take part in a contest etc. 2 (often foll. by with, against a person, for a thing) strive. [Latin peto seek]
competence n. (also competency) 1 ability; being competent. 2 income large enough to live on. 3 legal capacity.
competent adj. 1 adequately qualified or capable. 2 effective. competently adv. [Latin: related to *compete]
competition n. 1 (often foll. by for) competing. 2 event in which people compete. 3 the other people or trade competing; opposition. [Latin: related to *compete]
competitive adj. 1 of or involving competition. 2 (of prices etc.) comparing favourably with those of rivals. 3 having a strong urge to win. competitiveness n.
competitor n. person who competes; rival, esp. in business.
compile v. (-ling) 1 a collect and arrange (material) into a list, book, etc. b produce (a book etc.) thus. 2 Computing translate (a programming language) into machine code. compilation n. [Latin compilo plunder]
compiler n. 1 person who compiles. 2 Computing program for translating a programming language into machine code.
complacent adj. smugly self-satisfied or contented. complacence n. complacency n. complacently adv. [Latin placeo please]
Usage Complacent is often confused with complaisant.
complain v. 1 express dissatisfaction. 2 (foll. by of) a say that one is suffering from (an ailment). b state a grievance concerning. 3 creak under strain. [Latin plango lament]
complainant n. plaintiff in certain lawsuits.
complaint n. 1 complaining. 2 grievance, cause of dissatisfaction. 3 ailment. 4 formal accusation.
complaisant adj. formal 1 deferential. 2 willing to please; acquiescent. complaisance n. [French: related to *complacent]
Usage Complaisant is often confused with complacent.
complement -n. 1 thing that completes; counterpart. 2 full number needed. 3 word(s) added to a verb to complete the predicate of a sentence. 4 amount by which an angle is less than 90°. -v. 1 complete. 2 form a complement to. [Latin compleo fill up]
complementary adj. 1 completing; forming a complement. 2 (of two or more things) complementing each other.
complementary medicine n. alternative medicine.
complete -adj. 1 having all its parts; entire. 2 finished. 3 total, in every way. -v. (-ting) 1 finish. 2 make complete. 3 fill in (a form etc.). 4 conclude the sale or purchase of property. complete with having (as an important feature) (comes complete with instructions). completely adv. completeness n. completion n. [Latin: related to *complement]
complex -n. 1 building, series of rooms, etc., made up of related parts (shopping complex). 2 Psychol. group of usu. repressed feelings or thoughts which cause abnormal behaviour or mental states. 3 preoccupation; feeling of inadequacy. -adj. 1 complicated. 2 consisting of related parts; composite. complexity n. (pl. -ies). [Latin complexus]
complexion n. 1 natural colour, texture, and appearance of the skin, esp. of the face. 2 aspect, character (puts a different complexion on the matter). [Latin: related to *complex]
compliance n. 1 obedience to a request, command, etc. 2 capacity to yield. in compliance with according to.
compliant adj. obedient; yielding. compliantly adv.
complicate v. (-ting) 1 make difficult or complex. 2 (as complicated adj.) complex; intricate. [Latin plico to fold]
complication n. 1 a involved or confused condition or state. b complicating circumstance; difficulty. 2 (often in pl.) disease or condition aggravating or arising out of a previous one. [Latin: related to *complicate]
complicity n. partnership in wrongdoing. [French: related to *complex]
compliment -n. 1 a polite expression of praise. b act implying praise. 2 (in pl.) a formal greetings accompanying a present etc. b praise. -v. (often foll. by on) congratulate; praise. [Latin: related to *complement]
complimentary adj. 1 expressing a compliment. 2 given free of charge.
compline n. 1 last of the canonical hours of prayer. 2 service during this. [Latin: related to *comply]
comply v. (-ies, -ied) (often foll. by with) act in accordance (with a request or command). [Latin compleo fill up]
component -n. part of a larger whole. -adj. being part of a larger whole. [Latin: related to *compound1]
comport v.refl. literary conduct oneself; behave. comport with suit, befit. comportment n. [Latin porto carry]
compose v. (-sing) 1 create in music or writing. 2 constitute; make up. 3 arrange artistically, neatly, or for a specified purpose. 4 a (often refl.) calm; settle. b (as composed adj.) calm, self-possessed. 5 Printing a set up (type). b arrange (an article etc.) in type. composed of made up of, consisting of. composedly adv. [French: related to *pose]
Usage See note at comprise.
composer n. person who composes (esp. music).
composite -adj. 1 made up of parts. 2 of mixed Ionic and Corinthian style. 3 (of a plant) having a head of many flowers forming one bloom. -n. composite thing or plant. [Latin: related to *compose]
composition n. 1 a act or method of putting together; composing. b thing composed, esp. music. 2 constitution of a substance. 3 school essay. 4 arrangement of the parts of a picture etc. 5 compound artificial substance. compositional adj.
compositor n. person who sets up type for printing. [Latin: related to *compose]
compos mentis adj. sane. [Latin]
compost -n. 1 mixture of decayed organic matter. 2 loam soil with fertilizer for growing plants. -v. 1 treat with compost. 2 make into compost. [Latin: related to *compose]
composure n. tranquil manner. [from *compose]
compote n. fruit preserved or cooked in syrup. [French: related to *compose]
compound1 -n. 1 mixture of two or more things. 2 word made up of two or more existing words. 3 substance formed from two or more elements chemically united in fixed proportions. -adj. 1 made up of two or more ingredients or parts. 2 combined; collective. -v. 1 mix or combine (ingredients or elements). 2 increase or complicate (difficulties etc.). 3 make up (a composite whole). 4 settle (a matter) by mutual agreement. 5 Law condone or conceal (a liability or offence) for personal gain. 6 (usu. foll. by with) Law come to terms with a person. [Latin compono -pos- put together]
compound2 n. 1 enclosure or fenced-in space. 2 enclosure, esp. in India, China, etc., in which a factory or house stands. [Malay kampong]
compound fracture n. fracture complicated by a wound.
compound interest n. interest payable on capital and its accumulated interest.
comprehend v. 1 grasp mentally; understand. 2 include. [Latin comprehendo seize]
comprehensible adj. that can be understood. [Latin: related to *comprehend]
comprehension n. 1 a understanding. b text set as a test of understanding. 2 inclusion.
comprehensive -adj. 1 including all or nearly all, inclusive. 2 (of motor insurance) providing protection against most risks. -n. (in full comprehensive school) secondary school for children of all abilities. comprehensively adv. comprehensiveness n.
compress -v. 1 squeeze together. 2 bring into a smaller space or shorter time. -n. pad of lint etc. pressed on to part of the body to relieve inflammation, stop bleeding, etc. compressible adj. [Latin: related to *press1]
compression n. 1 compressing. 2 reduction in volume of the fuel mixture in an internal-combustion engine before ignition.
compressor n. machine for compressing air or other gases.
comprise v. (-sing) 1 include. 2 consist of. 3 make up, compose. [French: related to *comprehend]
Usage The use of this word in sense 3 is considered incorrect and compose is generally preferred.
compromise -n. 1 settlement of a dispute by mutual concession. 2 (often foll. by between) intermediate state between conflicting opinions, actions, etc. -v. (-sing) 1 a settle a dispute by mutual concession. b modify one's opinions, demands, etc. 2 bring into disrepute or danger by indiscretion. [Latin: related to *promise]
comptroller n. controller (used in the title of some financial officers). [var. of *controller]
compulsion n. 1 compelling or being compelled; obligation. 2 irresistible urge. [Latin: related to *compel]
compulsive adj. 1 compelling. 2 resulting or acting (as if) from compulsion (compulsive gambler). 3 irresistible (compulsive entertainment). compulsively adv. [medieval Latin: related to *compel]
compulsory adj. 1 required by law or a rule. 2 essential. compulsorily adv.
compulsory purchase n. enforced sale of land or property to a local authority etc.
compunction n. 1 pricking of conscience. 2 slight regret; scruple. [Church Latin: related to *point]
compute v. (-ting) 1 reckon or calculate. 2 use a computer. computation n. [Latin puto reckon]
computer n. electronic device for storing and processing data, making calculations, or controlling machinery.
computerize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 equip with a computer. 2 store, perform, or produce by computer. computerization n.
computer-literate adj. able to use computers.
computer science n. the study of the principles and use of computers.
computer virus n. self-replicating code maliciously introduced into a computer program and intended to corrupt the system or destroy data.
comrade n. 1 associate or companion in some activity. 2 fellow socialist or Communist. comradely adj. comradeship n. [Spanish: related to *chamber]
con1 slang -n. confidence trick. -v. (-nn-) swindle; deceive. [abbreviation]
con2 -n. (usu. in pl.) reason against. -prep. & adv. against (cf. *pro2). [Latin contra against]
con3 n. slang convict. [abbreviation]
con4 v. (US conn) (-nn-) direct the steering of (a ship). [originally cond from French: related to *conduct]
con- see *com-.
concatenation n. series of linked things or events. [Latin catena chain]
concave adj. curved like the interior of a circle or sphere. concavity n. [Latin: related to *cave]
conceal v. 1 keep secret. 2 hide. concealment n. [Latin celo hide]
concede v. (-ding) 1 admit to be true. 2 admit defeat in. 3 grant (a right, privilege, etc.). [Latin: related to *cede]
conceit n. 1 personal vanity; pride. 2 literary a far-fetched comparison. b fanciful notion. [from *conceive]
conceited adj. vain. conceitedly adv.
conceivable adj. capable of being grasped or imagined. conceivably adv.
conceive v. (-ving) 1 become pregnant (with). 2 a (often foll. by of) imagine, think. b (usu. in passive) formulate (a belief, plan, etc.). [Latin concipio -cept-]
concentrate -v. (-ting) 1 (often foll. by on) focus one's attention or thought. 2 bring together to one point. 3 increase the strength of (a liquid etc.) by removing water etc. 4 (as concentrated adj.) intense, strong. -n. concentrated substance. [Latin: related to *centre]
concentration n. 1 concentrating or being concentrated. 2 mental attention. 3 something concentrated. 4 weight of a substance in a given amount of material.
concentration camp n. camp where political prisoners etc. are detained.
concentric adj. having a common centre. concentrically adv. [French or medieval Latin: related to *centre]
concept n. general notion; abstract idea. [Latin: related to *conceive]
conception n. 1 conceiving or being conceived. 2 idea, plan. 3 understanding (has no conception). conceptional adj. [French from Latin: related to *concept]
conceptual adj. of mental conceptions or concepts. conceptually adv.
conceptualize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) form a concept or idea of. conceptualization n.
concern -v. 1 a be relevant or important to. b relate to; be about. 2 (refl.; often foll. by with, about, in) interest or involve oneself. 3 worry, affect. -n. 1 anxiety, worry. 2 a matter of interest or importance to one. b interest, connection (has a concern in politics). 3 business, firm. 4 colloq. complicated thing, contrivance. [Latin cerno sift]
concerned adj. 1 involved, interested. 2 troubled, anxious. be concerned (often foll. by in) take part. concernedly adv. concernedness n.
concerning prep. about, regarding.
concert n. 1 musical performance of usu. several separate compositions. 2 agreement. 3 combination of voices or sounds. [Italian: related to *concerto]
concerted adj. 1 jointly arranged or planned. 2 Mus. arranged in parts for voices or instruments.
concertina -n. musical instrument like an accordion but smaller. -v. (-nas, -naed or -na'd, -naing) compress or collapse in folds like those of a concertina.
concerto n. (pl. -s or -ti) composition for solo instrument(s) and orchestra. [Italian]
concert pitch n. pitch internationally agreed whereby the A above middle C = 440 Hz.
concession n. 1 a conceding. b thing conceded. 2 reduction in price for a certain category of persons. 3 a right to use land etc. b right to sell goods in a particular territory. concessionary adj. [Latin: related to *concede]
concessive adj. Gram. (of a preposition or conjunction) introducing a phrase or clause which contrasts with the main clause (e.g. in spite of, although). [Latin: related to *concede]
conch n. 1 thick heavy spiral shell of various marine gastropod molluscs. 2 any such gastropod. [Latin concha]
conchology n. the study of shells. [from *conch]
concierge n. (esp. in France) door-keeper or porter of a block of flats etc. [French]
conciliate v. (-ting) 1 make calm and amenable; pacify; gain the goodwill of. 2 reconcile. conciliation n. conciliator n. conciliatory adj. [Latin: related to *council]
concise adj. brief but comprehensive in expression. concisely adv. conciseness n. concision n. [Latin caedo cut]
conclave n. 1 private meeting. 2 RC Ch. a assembly of cardinals for the election of a pope. b meeting-place for this. [Latin clavis key]
conclude v. (-ding) 1 bring or come to an end. 2 (often foll. by from or that) infer. 3 settle (a treaty etc.). [Latin concludo: related to *close1]
conclusion n. 1 ending, end. 2 judgement reached by reasoning. 3 summing-up. 4 settling (of peace etc.). 5 Logic proposition reached from given premisses. in conclusion lastly, to conclude. [Latin: related to *conclude]
conclusive adj. decisive, convincing. conclusively adv. [Latin: related to *conclude]
concoct v. 1 make by mixing ingredients. 2 invent (a story, lie, etc.). concoction n. [Latin coquo coct- cook]
concomitant -adj. (often foll. by with) accompanying; occurring together. -n. accompanying thing. concomitance n. [Latin comes comit- companion]
concord n. agreement, harmony. concordant adj. [Latin cor cord- heart]
concordance n. 1 agreement. 2 alphabetical index of words used in a book or by an author. [medieval Latin: related to *concord]
concordat n. agreement, esp. between the Church and a State. [Latin: related to *concord]
concourse n. 1 crowd, gathering. 2 large open area in a railway station etc. [Latin: related to *concur]
concrete -adj. 1 a existing in a material form; real. b specific, definite (concrete evidence; a concrete proposal). 2 Gram. (of a noun) denoting a material object as opposed to a quality, state, etc. -n. (often attrib.) mixture of gravel, sand, cement, and water, used for building. -v. (-ting) cover with or embed in concrete. [Latin cresco cret- grow]
concretion n. 1 hard solid mass. 2 forming of this by coalescence. [Latin: related to *concrete]
concubine n. 1 literary or joc. mistress. 2 (among polygamous peoples) secondary wife. concubinage n. [Latin cubo lie]
concupiscence n. formal lust. concupiscent adj. [Latin cupio desire]
concur v. (-rr-) 1 (often foll. by with) have the same opinion. 2 coincide. [Latin curro run]
concurrent adj. 1 (often foll. by with) existing or in operation at the same time or together. 2 (of three or more lines) meeting at or tending towards one point. 3 agreeing, harmonious. concurrence n. concurrently adv.
concuss v. subject to concussion. [Latin quatio shake]
concussion n. 1 temporary unconsciousness or incapacity due to a blow to the head, a fall, etc. 2 violent shaking.
condemn v. 1 express utter disapproval of. 2 a find guilty; convict. b (usu. foll. by to) sentence to (a punishment). 3 pronounce (a building etc.) unfit for use. 4 (usu. foll. by to) doom or assign (to something unpleasant). condemnation n. condemnatory adj. [Latin: related to *damn]
condensation n. 1 condensing or being condensed. 2 condensed liquid (esp. water on a cold surface). 3 abridgement. [Latin: related to *condense]
condense v. (-sing) 1 make denser or more concentrated. 2 express in fewer words. 3 reduce or be reduced from a gas or vapour to a liquid. [Latin: related to *dense]
condensed milk n. milk thickened by evaporation and sweetened.
condenser n. 1 apparatus or vessel for condensing vapour. 2 Electr. = *capacitor. 3 lens or system of lenses for concentrating light.
condescend v. 1 be gracious enough (to do a thing) esp. while showing one's sense of dignity or superiority (condescended to attend). 2 (foll. by to) pretend to be on equal terms with (an inferior). 3 (as condescending adj.) patronizing. condescendingly adv. condescension n. [Latin: related to *descend]
condign adj. (of a punishment etc.) severe and well-deserved. [Latin dignus worthy]
condiment n. seasoning or relish for food. [Latin condio pickle]
condition -n. 1 stipulation; thing upon the fulfilment of which something else depends. 2 a state of being or fitness of a person or thing. b ailment, abnormality (heart condition). 3 (in pl.) circumstances, esp. those affecting the functioning or existence of something (good working conditions). -v. 1 a bring into a good or desired state. b make fit (esp. dogs or horses). 2 teach or accustom. 3 a impose conditions on. b be essential to. in (or out of) condition in good (or bad) condition. on condition that with the stipulation that. [Latin dico say]
conditional adj. 1 (often foll. by on) dependent; not absolute; containing a condition. 2 Gram. (of a clause, mood, etc.) expressing a condition. conditionally adv. [Latin: related to *condition]
conditioned reflex n. reflex response to a non-natural stimulus, established by training.
conditioner n. agent that conditions, esp. the hair.
condole v. (-ling) (foll. by with) express sympathy with (a person) over a loss etc. [Latin condoleo grieve with another]
Usage Condole is often confused with console1.
condolence n. (often in pl.) expression of sympathy.
condom n. contraceptive sheath worn by men. [origin unknown]
condominium n. 1 joint rule or sovereignty. 2 US building containing individually owned flats. [Latin dominium lordship]
condone v. (-ning) forgive or overlook (an offence or wrongdoing). [Latin dono give]
condor n. large S. American vulture. [Spanish from Quechua]
conduce v. (-cing) (foll. by to) contribute to (a result). [Latin: related to *conduct]
conducive adj. (often foll. by to) contributing or helping (towards something).
conduct -n. 1 behaviour. 2 activity or manner of directing or managing (a business, war, etc.). -v. 1 lead or guide. 2 direct or manage (a business etc.). 3 (also absol.) be the conductor of (an orchestra etc.). 4 transmit (heat, electricity, etc.) by conduction. 5 refl. behave. [Latin duco duct- lead]
conductance n. power of a specified material to conduct electricity.
conduction n. transmission of heat, electricity, etc. through a substance. [Latin: related to *conduct]
conductive adj. transmitting (esp. heat, electricity, etc.). conductivity n.
conductor n. 1 person who directs an orchestra etc. 2 (fem. conductress) person who collects fares in a bus etc. 3 thing that conducts heat or electricity. [Latin: related to *conduct]
conduit n. 1 channel or pipe conveying liquids. 2 tube or trough protecting insulated electric wires. [medieval Latin: related to *conduct]
cone n. 1 solid figure with a circular (or other curved) plane base, tapering to a point. 2 thing of similar shape. 3 dry fruit of a conifer. 4 ice-cream cornet. [Latin from Greek]
coney var. of *cony.
confab colloq. -n. = confabulation (see *confabulate). -v. (-bb-) = *confabulate. [abbreviation]
confabulate v. (-ting) converse, chat. confabulation n. [Latin: related to *fable]
confection n. dish or delicacy made with sweet ingredients. [Latin conficio prepare]
confectioner n. maker or retailer of confectionery.
confectionery n. confections, esp. sweets.
confederacy n. (pl. -ies) league or alliance, esp. of confederate States. [French: related to *confederate]
confederate -adj. esp. Polit. allied. -n. 1 ally, esp. (in a bad sense) accomplice. 2 (Confederate) supporter of the Confederate States. -v. (-ting) (often foll. by with) bring or come into alliance. [Latin: related to *federal]
Confederate States n.pl. States which seceded from the US in 1860-1.
confederation n. 1 union or alliance, esp. of States. 2 confederating or being confederated.
confer v. (-rr-) 1 (often foll. by on, upon) grant or bestow. 2 (often foll. by with) converse, consult. conferrable adj. [Latin confero collat- bring together]
conference n. 1 consultation. 2 meeting for discussion. [French or medieval Latin: related to *confer]
conferment n. conferring of a degree, honour, etc.
confess v. 1 a (also absol.) acknowledge or admit (a fault, crime, etc.). b (foll. by to) admit to. 2 admit reluctantly. 3 a (also absol.) declare (one's sins) to a priest. b (of a priest) hear the confession of. [Latin confiteor -fess-]
confessedly adv. by one's own or general admission.
confession n. 1 a act of confessing. b thing confessed. 2 (in full confession of faith) declaration of one's beliefs or principles.
confessional -n. enclosed stall in a church in which the priest hears confessions. -adj. of confession.
confessor n. priest who hears confessions and gives spiritual counsel.
confetti n. small bits of coloured paper thrown by wedding guests at the bride and groom. [Italian]
confidant n. (fem. confidante pronunc. same) person trusted with knowledge of one's private affairs. [related to *confide]
confide v. (-ding) 1 (foll. by in) talk confidentially to. 2 (usu. foll. by to) tell (a secret etc.) in confidence. 3 (foll. by to) entrust (an object of care, a task, etc.) to. [Latin confido trust]
confidence n. 1 firm trust. 2 a feeling of reliance or certainty. b sense of self-reliance; boldness. 3 something told as a secret. in confidence as a secret. in a person's confidence trusted with a person's secrets. take into one's confidence confide in. [Latin: related to *confide]
confidence trick n. swindle in which the victim is persuaded to trust the swindler. confidence trickster n.
confident adj. feeling or showing confidence; bold. confidently adv. [Italian: related to *confide]
confidential adj. 1 spoken or written in confidence. 2 entrusted with secrets (confidential secretary). 3 confiding. confidentiality n. confidentially adv.
configuration n. 1 arrangement in a particular form. 2 form or figure resulting from this. 3 Computing hardware and its arrangement of connections etc. configure v. (-ring). [Latin: related to *figure]
confine -v. (-ning) 1 keep or restrict (within certain limits). 2 imprison. -n. (usu. in pl.) limit, boundary. [Latin finis limit]
confinement n. 1 confining or being confined. 2 time of childbirth.
confirm v. 1 provide support for the truth or correctness of. 2 (foll. by in) encourage (a person) in (an opinion etc.). 3 establish more firmly (power, possession, etc.). 4 make formally valid. 5 administer the religious rite of confirmation to. [Latin: related to *firm1]
confirmation n. 1 confirming or being confirmed. 2 rite confirming a baptized person as a member of the Christian Church.
confirmed adj. firmly settled in some habit or condition (confirmed bachelor).
confiscate v. (-ting) take or seize by authority. confiscation n. [Latin: related to *fiscal]
conflagration n. great and destructive fire. [Latin: related to *flagrant]
conflate v. (-ting) blend or fuse together (esp. two variant texts into one). conflation n. [Latin flo flat- blow]
conflict -n. 1 a state of opposition. b fight, struggle. 2 (often foll. by of) clashing of opposed interests etc. -v. clash; be incompatible. [Latin fligo flict- strike]
confluence n. 1 place where two rivers meet. 2 a coming together. b crowd of people. [Latin fluo flow]
confluent -adj. flowing together, uniting. -n. stream joining another.
conform v. 1 comply with rules or general custom. 2 (foll. by to, with) comply with; be in accordance with. 3 (often foll. by to) be or make suitable. [Latin: related to *form]
conformable adj. 1 (often foll. by to) similar. 2 (often foll. by with) consistent. 3 (often foll. by to) adaptable.
conformation n. way a thing is formed; shape.
conformist -n. person who conforms to an established practice. -adj. conforming, conventional. conformism n.
conformity n. 1 accordance with established practice. 2 agreement, suitability.
confound -v. 1 perplex, baffle. 2 confuse (in one's mind). 3 archaic defeat, overthrow. -int. expressing annoyance (confound you!). [Latin confundo -fus- mix up]
confounded attrib. adj. colloq. damned.
confront v. 1 a face in hostility or defiance. b face up to and deal with. 2 (of a difficulty etc.) present itself to. 3 (foll. by with) bring (a person) face to face with (an accusation etc.). 4 meet or stand facing. confrontation n. confrontational adj. [French from medieval Latin]
Confucian adj. of Confucius or his philosophy. Confucianism n. [Confucius, name of a Chinese philosopher]
confuse v. (-sing) 1 perplex, bewilder. 2 mix up in the mind; mistake (one for another). 3 make indistinct (confuse the issue). 4 (often as confused adj.) throw into disorder. confusedly adv. confusing adj. [related to *confound]
confusion n. confusing or being confused.
confute v. (-ting) prove (a person or argument) to be in error. confutation n. [Latin]
conga -n. 1 Latin-American dance, with a line of dancers one behind the other. 2 tall narrow drum beaten with the hands. -v. (congas, congaed or conga'd, congaing) perform the conga. [Spanish conga (feminine), = of the Congo]
congeal v. 1 make or become semi-solid by cooling. 2 (of blood etc.) coagulate. congelation n. [French from Latin gelo freeze]
congenial adj. 1 (often foll. by with, to) pleasant because like-minded. 2 (often foll. by to) suited or agreeable. congeniality n. congenially adv. [from *com-, *genial]
congenital adj. 1 (esp. of disease) existing from birth. 2 as such from birth (congenital liar). congenitally adv. [Latin: related to *com-]
conger n. (in full conger eel) large marine eel. [Greek goggros]
congeries n. (pl. same) disorderly collection; mass, heap. [Latin congero heap together]
Usage The form congery, formed under the misapprehension that congeries is plural only, is incorrect.
congest v. (esp. as congested adj.) affect with congestion. [Latin congero -gest- heap together]
congestion n. abnormal accumulation or obstruction, esp. of traffic etc. or of blood or mucus in part of the body.
conglomerate -adj. gathered into a rounded mass. -n. 1 heterogeneous mass. 2 group or corporation of merged firms. -v. (-ting) collect into a coherent mass. conglomeration n. [Latin glomus -eris ball]
congratulate v. (-ting) (often foll. by on) 1 express pleasure at the happiness, good fortune, or excellence of (a person). 2 refl. think oneself fortunate or clever. congratulatory adj. [Latin gratus pleasing]
congratulation n. 1 congratulating. 2 (usu. in pl.) expression of this.
congregate v. (-ting) collect or gather into a crowd. [Latin grex greg- flock]
congregation n. 1 gathering of people, esp. for religious worship. 2 body of persons regularly attending a particular church etc. [Latin: related to *congregate]
congregational adj. 1 of a congregation. 2 (Congregational) of or adhering to Congregationalism.
congregation n. 1 gathering of people, esp. for religious worship. 2 body of persons regularly attending a particular church etc. [Latin: related to *congregate]
congregational adj. 1 of a congregation. 2 (Congregational) of or adhering to Congregationalism.
Congregationalism n. system whereby individual churches are largely self-governing. Congregationalist n.
congress n. 1 formal meeting of delegates for discussion. 2 (Congress) national legislative body, esp. of the US. congressional adj. [Latin gradior gress- walk]
congressman n. (fem. congresswoman) member of the US Congress.
congruent adj. 1 (often foll. by with) suitable, agreeing. 2 Geom. (of figures) coinciding exactly when superimposed. congruence n. congruency n. [Latin congruo agree]
congruous adj. suitable, agreeing; fitting. congruity n. [Latin: related to *congruent]
conic adj. of a cone. [Greek: related to *cone]
conical adj. cone-shaped.
conifer n. tree usu. bearing cones. coniferous adj. [Latin: related to *cone]
conjectural adj. based on conjecture.
conjecture -n. 1 formation of an opinion on incomplete information; guessing. 2 guess. -v. (-ring) guess. [Latin conjectura from jacio throw]
conjoin v. formal join, combine.
conjoint adj. formal associated, conjoined.
conjugal adj. of marriage or the relationship of husband and wife. [Latin conjux consort]
conjugate -v. (-ting) 1 Gram. list the different forms of (a verb). 2 a unite. b become fused. -adj. 1 joined together, paired. 2 fused. [Latin jugum yoke]
conjugation n. Gram. system of verbal inflection.
conjunct adj. joined together; combined; associated. [Latin from juntus joined]
conjunction n. 1 joining; connection. 2 Gram. word used to connect clauses or sentences or words in the same clause (e.g. and, but, if). 3 combination (of events or circumstances). 4 apparent proximity to each other of two bodies in the solar system.
conjunctiva n. (pl. -s) mucous membrane covering the front of the eye and the lining inside the eyelids.
conjunctive adj. 1 serving to join. 2 Gram. of the nature of a conjunction.
conjunctivitis n. inflammation of the conjunctiva.
conjure v. (-ring) 1 perform tricks which are seemingly magical, esp. by movements of the hands. 2 summon (a spirit or demon) to appear. 3 formal appeal solemnly to. conjure up 1 produce as if by magic. 2 evoke. [Latin juro swear]
conjuror n. (also conjurer) performer of conjuring tricks.
conk1 v. (usu. foll. by out) colloq. 1 (of a machine etc.) break down. 2 (of a person) become exhausted and give up; fall asleep; faint; die. [origin unknown]
conk2 slang -n. 1 nose or head. 2 punch on the nose or head. -v. hit on the nose or head. [perhaps = *conch]
conker n. 1 fruit of the horse chestnut. 2 (in pl.) children's game played with conkers on strings. [dial. conker snail-shell]
con man n. confidence trickster.
conn v. (Brit. con) (-nn-) direct the steering of (a ship). [originally cond from French: related to *conduct]
connect v. 1 (often foll. by to, with) join (two things, or one thing with another). 2 be joined or joinable. 3 (often foll. by with) associate mentally or practically. 4 (foll. by with) (of a train etc.) be timed to arrive with another, so passengers can transfer. 5 put into communication by telephone. 6 a (usu. in passive; foll. by with) associate with others in relationships etc. b be meaningful or relevant. 7 colloq. hit or strike effectively. [Latin necto nex- bind]
connecting-rod n. rod between the piston and crankpin etc. in an internal combustion engine.
connection n. (also connexion) 1 connecting or being connected. 2 point at which two things are connected. 3 link, esp. by telephone. 4 connecting train etc. 5 (often in pl.) relative or associate, esp. one with influence. 6 relation of ideas. in connection with with reference to.
connective adj. connecting, esp. of body tissue connecting, separating, etc., organs etc.
connector n. thing that connects.
conning tower n. 1 superstructure of a submarine containing the periscope. 2 armoured wheel-house of a warship. [from *con4]
connive v. (-ving) 1 (foll. by at) disregard or tacitly consent to (a wrongdoing). 2 (usu. foll. by with) conspire. connivance n. [Latin conniveo shut the eyes]
connoisseur n. (often foll. by of, in) expert judge in matters of taste. [French connaître know]
connote v. (-ting) 1 (of a word etc.) imply in addition to the literal or primary meaning. 2 mean, signify. connotation n. connotative adj. [medieval Latin: related to *note]
connubial adj. of marriage or the relationship of husband and wife. [Latin nubo marry]
conquer v. 1 a overcome and control militarily. b be victorious. 2 overcome by effort. conqueror n. [Latin conquiro win]
conquest n. 1 conquering or being conquered. 2 a conquered territory. b something won. 3 person whose affection has been won.
consanguineous adj. descended from the same ancestor; akin. consanguinity n. [Latin sanguis blood]
conscience n. moral sense of right and wrong, esp. as affecting behaviour. in all conscience colloq. by any reasonable standard. on one's conscience causing one feelings of guilt. prisoner of conscience person imprisoned by the State for his or her political or religious views. [Latin: related to *science]
conscience money n. sum paid to relieve one's conscience, esp. regarding a payment previously evaded.
conscience-stricken adj. (also conscience-struck) made uneasy by a bad conscience.
conscientious adj. diligent and scrupulous. conscientiously adv. conscientiousness n. [medieval Latin: related to *conscience]
conscientious objector n. person who for reasons of conscience objects to military service etc.
conscious -adj. 1 awake and aware of one's surroundings and identity. 2 (usu. foll. by of or that) aware, knowing. 3 (of actions, emotions, etc.) realized or recognized by the doer; intentional. 4 (in comb.) aware of; concerned with (fashion-conscious). -n. (prec. by the) the conscious mind. consciously adv. consciousness n. [Latin scio know]
conscript -v. summon for compulsory State (esp. military) service. -n. conscripted person. conscription n. [Latin scribo write]
consecrate v. (-ting) 1 make or declare sacred; dedicate formally to religious or divine purpose. 2 (foll. by to) devote to (a purpose). consecration n. [Latin: related to *sacred]
consecutive adj. 1 a following continuously. b in an unbroken or logical order. 2 Gram. expressing a consequence. consecutively adv. [Latin sequor secut- follow]
consensus n. (often foll. by of; often attrib.) general agreement or opinion. [Latin: related to *consent]
consent -v. (often foll. by to) express willingness, give permission, agree. -n. voluntary agreement, permission. [Latin sentio feel]
consequence n. 1 result or effect of what has gone before. 2 importance. in consequence as a result. take the consequences accept the results of one's choice or action. [Latin: related to *consecutive]
consequent adj. 1 (often foll. by on, upon) following as a result or consequence. 2 logically consistent.
consequential adj. 1 consequent; resulting indirectly. 2 important.
consequently adv. & conj. as a result; therefore.
conservancy n. (pl. -ies) 1 body controlling a port, river, etc., or preserving the environment. 2 official environmental conservation. [Latin: related to *conserve]
conservation n. preservation, esp. of the natural environment. [Latin: related to *conserve]
conservationist n. supporter of environmental conservation.
conservation of energy n. principle that the total quantity of energy in any system that is not subject to external action remains constant.
conservative -adj. 1 a averse to rapid change. b (of views, taste, etc.) moderate, avoiding extremes. 2 (of an estimate etc.) purposely low. 3 (usu. Conservative) of Conservatives or the Conservative Party. 4 tending to conserve. -n. 1 conservative person. 2 (usu. Conservative) supporter or member of the Conservative Party. conservatism n. [Latin: related to *conserve]
Conservative Party n. political party promoting free enterprise and private ownership.
conservatoire n. (usu. European) school of music or other arts. [French from Italian]
conservatory n. (pl. -ies) 1 greenhouse for tender plants, esp. attached to a house. 2 esp. US = *conservatoire. [Latin and Italian: related to *conserve]
conserve -v. (-ving) keep from harm or damage, esp. for later use. -n. fresh fruit jam. [Latin servo keep]
consider v. 1 contemplate mentally, esp. in order to reach a conclusion. 2 examine the merits of. 3 look attentively at. 4 take into account; show consideration or regard for. 5 (foll. by that) have the opinion. 6 regard as. 7 (as considered adj.) formed after careful thought (a considered opinion). all things considered taking everything into account. [French from Latin]
considerable adj. 1 much; a lot of (considerable pain). 2 notable, important. considerably adv.
considerate adj. thoughtful towards others; careful not to cause hurt or inconvenience. considerately adv. [Latin: related to *consider]
consideration n. 1 careful thought. 2 thoughtfulness for others; being considerate. 3 fact or thing taken into account. 4 compensation; payment or reward. in consideration of in return for; on account of. take into consideration make allowance for. under consideration being considered.
considering -prep. & conj. in view of; taking into consideration. -adv. colloq. taking everything into account (not so bad, considering).
consign v. (often foll. by to) 1 hand over; deliver. 2 assign; commit. 3 transmit or send (goods). consignee n. consignor n. [Latin: related to *sign]
consignment n. 1 consigning or being consigned. 2 goods consigned.
consist v. 1 (foll. by of) be composed; have as ingredients. 2 (foll. by in, of) have its essential features as specified. [Latin sisto stop]
consistency n. (pl. -ies) 1 degree of density, firmness, or viscosity, esp. of thick liquids. 2 being consistent. [Latin: related to *consist]
consistent adj. 1 (usu. foll. by with) compatible or in harmony. 2 (of a person) constant to the same principles. consistently adv. [Latin: related to *consist]
consistory n. (pl. -ies) RC Ch. council of cardinals (with or without the pope). [Latin: related to *consist]
consolation n. 1 consoling or being consoled. 2 consoling thing or person. consolatory adj.
consolation prize n. prize given to a competitor who just fails to win a main prize.
console1 v. (-ling) comfort, esp. in grief or disappointment. [Latin: related to *solace]
Usage Console is often confused with condole, which is different in that it is always followed by with.
console2 n. 1 panel for switches, controls, etc. 2 cabinet for a television etc. 3 cabinet with the keyboards and stops of an organ. 4 bracket supporting a shelf etc. [French]
consolidate v. (-ting) 1 make or become strong or secure. 2 combine (territories, companies, debts, etc.) into one whole. consolidation n. consolidator n. [Latin: related to *solid]
consommé n. clear soup from meat stock. [French]
consonance n. agreement, harmony. [Latin sono *sound1]
consonant -n. 1 speech sound in which the breath is at least partly obstructed, and which forms a syllable by combining with a vowel. 2 letter(s) representing this. -adj. (foll. by with, to) consistent; in agreement or harmony. consonantal adj.
consort1 -n. wife or husband, esp. of royalty. -v. 1 (usu. foll. by with, together) keep company. 2 harmonize. [Latin: related to *sort]
consort2 n. Mus. small group of players, singers, or instruments. [var. of *concert]
consortium n. (pl. -tia or -s) association, esp. of several business companies. [Latin: related to *consort1]
conspicuous adj. 1 clearly visible; attracting notice. 2 noteworthy. conspicuously adv. [Latin specio look]
conspiracy n. (pl. -ies) 1 secret plan to commit a crime; plot. 2 conspiring. [Latin: related to *conspire]
conspiracy of silence n. agreement to say nothing.
conspirator n. person who takes part in a conspiracy. conspiratorial adj.
conspire v. (-ring) 1 combine secretly for an unlawful or harmful act. 2 (of events) seem to be working together. [Latin spiro breathe]
constable n. 1 (also police constable) police officer of the lowest rank. 2 governor of a royal castle. [Latin comes stabuli count of the stable]
constabulary n. (pl. -ies) police force. [medieval Latin: related to *constable]
constancy n. being unchanging and dependable; faithfulness. [Latin: related to *constant]
constant -adj. 1 continuous (constant attention). 2 occurring frequently (constant complaints). 3 unchanging, faithful, dependable. -n. 1 anything that does not vary. 2 Math. & Physics quantity or number that remains the same. constantly adv. [Latin sto stand]
constellation n. 1 group of fixed stars. 2 group of associated persons etc. [Latin stella star]
consternation n. anxiety, dismay. [Latin sterno throw down]
constipate v. (-ting) (esp. as constipated adj.) affect with constipation. [Latin stipo cram]
constipation n. difficulty in emptying the bowels.
constituency n. (pl. -ies) 1 body of voters who elect a representative. 2 area so represented.
constituent -adj. 1 composing or helping to make a whole. 2 able to make or change a constitution (constituent assembly). 3 electing. -n. 1 member of a constituency. 2 component part. [Latin: related to *constitute]
constitute v. (-ting) 1 be the components or essence of; compose. 2 a amount to (this constitutes a warning). b formally establish (constitutes a precedent). 3 give legal or constitutional form to. [Latin constituo establish]
constitution n. 1 act or method of constituting; composition. 2 body of fundamental principles by which a State or other body is governed. 3 person's inherent state of health, strength, etc. [Latin: related to *constitute]
constitutional -adj. 1 of or in line with the constitution. 2 inherent (constitutional weakness). -n. walk taken regularly as healthy exercise. constitutionality n. constitutionally adv.
constitutive adj. 1 able to form or appoint. 2 component. 3 essential.
constrain v. 1 compel. 2 a confine forcibly; imprison. b restrict severely. 3 (as constrained adj.) forced, embarrassed. [Latin stringo strict- tie]
constraint n. 1 constraining or being constrained. 2 restriction. 3 self-control.
constrict v. make narrow or tight; compress. constriction n. constrictive adj. [Latin: related to *constrain]
constrictor n. 1 snake that kills by compressing. 2 muscle that contracts an organ or part of the body.
construct -v. 1 make by fitting parts together; build, form. 2 Geom. delineate (a figure). -n. thing constructed, esp. by the mind. constructor n. [Latin struo struct- build]
construction n. 1 constructing or being constructed. 2 thing constructed. 3 interpretation or explanation. 4 syntactical arrangement of words. constructional adj.
constructive adj. 1 a tending to form a basis for ideas. b helpful, positive. 2 derived by inference. constructively adv.
construe v. (-strues, -strued, -struing) 1 interpret. 2 (often foll. by with) combine (words) grammatically. 3 analyse the syntax of (a sentence). 4 translate literally. [Latin: related to *construct]
consubstantial adj. Theol. of one substance. [Church Latin: related to *substance]
consubstantiation n. Theol. presence of Christ's body and blood together with the bread and wine in the Eucharist.
consul n. 1 official appointed by a State to protect its citizens and interests in a foreign city. 2 hist. either of two chief magistrates in ancient Rome. consular adj. consulship n. [Latin]
consulate n. 1 official building of a consul. 2 position of consul.
consult v. 1 seek information or advice from. 2 (often foll. by with) refer to a person for advice etc. 3 take into account (feelings, interests, etc.). consultative adj. [Latin consulo consult- take counsel]
consultancy n. (pl. -ies) practice or position of a consultant.
consultant n. 1 person providing professional advice etc. 2 senior medical specialist in a hospital.
consultation n. 1 meeting arranged to consult. 2 act or process of consulting.
consume v. (-ming) 1 eat or drink. 2 destroy. 3 preoccupy, possess (consumed with rage). 4 use up. consumable adj. & n. [Latin consumo -sumpt-]
consumer n. 1 person who consumes, esp. one who uses a product. 2 purchaser of goods or services.
consumer durable n. durable household product (e.g. a radio or washing-machine).
consumer goods n.pl. goods for consumers, not for producing other goods.
consumerism n. 1 protection of consumers' interests. 2 (often derog.) continual increase in the consumption of goods. consumerist adj.
consummate -v. (-ting) 1 complete; make perfect. 2 complete (a marriage) by sexual intercourse. -adj. complete, perfect; fully skilled. consummation n. [Latin summus utmost]
consumption n. 1 consuming or being consumed. 2 amount consumed. 3 use by a particular group (a film unsuitable for children's consumption). 4 archaic tuberculosis of the lungs. 5 purchase and use of goods etc. [French: related to *consume]
consumptive archaic -adj. suffering or tending to suffer from consumption. -n. consumptive person. [medieval Latin: related to *consumption]
cont. abbr. 1 contents. 2 continued.
contact -n. 1 state or condition of touching, meeting, or communicating. 2 person who is or may be communicated with for information, assistance, etc. 3 connection for the passage of an electric current. 4 person likely to carry a contagious disease through being near an infected person. -v. 1 get in touch with (a person). 2 begin correspondence or personal dealings with. [Latin tango tact- touch]
contact lens n. small lens placed directly on the eyeball to correct vision.
contact print photographic print made by placing a negative directly on to printing paper and exposing it to light.
contagion n. 1 a spreading of disease by bodily contact. b contagious disease. 2 moral corruption. [related to *contact]
contagious adj. 1 a (of a person) likely to transmit a disease by contact. b (of a disease) transmitted in this way. 2 (of emotions etc.) likely to spread (contagious enthusiasm).
contain v. 1 hold or be capable of holding within itself; include, comprise. 2 (of measures) be equal to (a gallon contains eight pints). 3 prevent from moving or extending. 4 control or restrain (feelings etc.). 5 (of a number) be divisible by (a factor) without a remainder. [Latin teneo hold]
container n. 1 box, jar, etc., for holding things. 2 large metal box for transporting goods.
containerize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) pack in or transport by container. containerization n.
containment n. action or policy of preventing the expansion of a hostile country or influence.
contaminate v. (-ting) 1 pollute, esp. with radioactivity. 2 infect. contaminant n. contamination n. contaminator n. [Latin tamen- related to tango touch]
contemplate v. (-ting) 1 survey visually or mentally. 2 regard (an event) as possible. 3 intend (he is not contemplating retiring). 4 meditate. contemplation n. [Latin]
contemplative -adj. of or given to (esp. religious) contemplation; thoughtful. -n. person devoted to religious contemplation. [Latin: related to *contemplate]
contemporaneous adj. (usu. foll. by with) existing or occurring at the same time. contemporaneity n. [Latin: related to *com-, tempus time]
contemporary -adj. 1 living or occurring at the same time. 2 of approximately the same age. 3 modern in style or design. -n. (pl. -ies) contemporary person or thing. [medieval Latin: related to *contemporaneous]
contempt n. 1 feeling that a person or thing deserves scorn or extreme reproach. 2 condition of being held in contempt. 3 (in full contempt of court) disobedience to or disrespect for a court of law. [Latin temno tempt- despise]
contemptible adj. deserving contempt. contemptibly adv.
contemptuous adj. (often foll. by of) feeling or showing contempt. contemptuously adv.
contend v. 1 (usu. foll. by with) fight, argue. 2 compete. 3 assert, maintain. contender n. [Latin: related to *tend1]
content1 -predic. adj. 1 satisfied; adequately happy. 2 (foll. by to + infin.) willing. -v. make content; satisfy. -n. contented state; satisfaction. to one's heart's content as much as one wishes. [Latin: related to *contain]
content2 n. 1 (usu. in pl.) what is contained, esp. in a vessel, book, or house. 2 amount (of a constituent) contained (high fat content). 3 substance (of a speech etc.) as distinct from form. 4 capacity or volume. [medieval Latin: related to *contain]
contented adj. showing or feeling content; happy, satisfied. contentedly adv. contentedness n.
contention n. 1 dispute or argument; rivalry. 2 point contended for in an argument. [Latin: related to *contend]
contentious adj. 1 quarrelsome. 2 likely to cause an argument.
contentment n. satisfied state; tranquil happiness.
contest -n. 1 contending; strife. 2 a competition. -v. 1 dispute (a decision etc.). 2 contend or compete for; compete in (an election). [Latin testis witness]
contestant n. person taking part in a contest.
context n. 1 parts that surround a word or passage and clarify its meaning. 2 relevant circumstances. in (or out of) context with (or without) the surrounding words or circumstances. contextual adj. contextualize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing). [Latin: related to *text]
contiguous adj. (usu. foll. by with, to) touching; in contact. contiguity n. [Latin: related to *contact]
continent1 n. 1 any of the main continuous expanses of land (Europe, Asia, Africa, N. and S. America, Australia, Antarctica). 2 (the Continent) mainland of Europe as distinct from the British Isles. [Latin: related to *contain]
continent2 adj. 1 able to control one's bowels and bladder. 2 exercising self-restraint, esp. sexually. continence n. [Latin: related to *contain]
continental adj. 1 of or characteristic of a continent. 2 (Continental) of or characteristic of mainland Europe.
continental breakfast n. light breakfast of coffee, rolls, etc.
continental quilt n. duvet.
continental shelf n. area of shallow seabed bordering a continent.
contingency n. (pl. -ies) 1 event that may or may not occur. 2 something dependent on another uncertain event. [Latin: related to *contingent]
contingent -adj. 1 (usu. foll. by on, upon) conditional, dependent (on an uncertain event or circumstance). 2 a that may or may not occur. b fortuitous. -n. 1 body (of troops, ships, etc.) forming part of a larger group. 2 group of people sharing an interest, origin, etc. (the Oxford contingent). [Latin: related to *contact]
continual adj. constantly or frequently recurring; always happening. continually adv. [French: related to *continue]
Usage Continual is often confused with continuous. Continual is used of something that happens very frequently (e.g. there were continual interruptions), while continuous is used of something that happens without a pause (e.g. continuous rain all day).
continuance n. 1 continuing in existence or operation. 2 duration.
continuation n. 1 continuing or being continued. 2 part that continues something else.
continue v. (-ues, -ued, -uing) 1 maintain, not stop (an action etc.) (continued to read, reading). 2 (also absol.) resume or prolong (a narrative, journey, etc.). 3 be a sequel to. 4 remain, stay (will continue as manager; weather continued fine). [Latin: related to *contain]
continuity n. (pl. -ies) 1 state of being continuous. 2 a logical sequence. 3 detailed scenario of a film or broadcast. 4 linking of broadcast items.
continuo n. (pl. -s) Mus. accompaniment providing a bass line, played usu. on a keyboard instrument. [Italian]
continuous adj. uninterrupted, connected throughout in space or time. continuously adv. [Latin: related to *contain]
Usage See note at continual.
continuous assessment n. evaluation of a pupil's progress throughout a course of study.
continuum n. (pl. -nua) thing having a continuous structure. [Latin: related to *continuous]
contort v. twist or force out of its normal shape. contortion n. [Latin torqueo tort- twist]
contortionist n. entertainer who adopts contorted postures.
contour -n. 1 outline. 2 (in full contour line) line on a map joining points of equal altitude. -v. mark with contour lines. [Italian contornare draw in outline]
contra n. (pl. -s) member of a counter-revolutionary force in Nicaragua. [abbreviation of Spanish contrarevolucionario counter-revolutionary]
contra- comb. form against, opposite. [Latin]
contraband -n. 1 smuggled goods. 2 smuggling; illegal trade. -adj. forbidden to be imported or exported. [Spanish from Italian]
contraception n. prevention of pregnancy; use of contraceptives. [from *contra-, *conception]
contraceptive -adj. preventing pregnancy. -n. contraceptive device or drug.
contract -n. 1 written or spoken agreement, esp. one enforceable by law. 2 document recording this. -v. 1 make or become smaller. 2 a (usu. foll. by with) make a contract. b (often foll. by out) arrange (work) to be done by contract. 3 become affected by (a disease). 4 enter into (marriage). 5 incur (a debt etc.). 6 draw together (the muscles, brow, etc.), or be drawn together. contract in (or out) choose to enter (or not to enter) a scheme or commitment. [Latin contractus: related to *tract1]
contractable adj. (of a disease) that can be contracted.
contract bridge n. bridge in which only tricks bid and won count towards the game.
contractible adj. that can be shrunk or drawn together.
contractile adj. capable of or producing contraction. contractility n.
contraction n. 1 contracting or being contracted. 2 Med. shortening of the uterine muscles during childbirth. 3 shrinking, diminution. 4 shortened form of a word or words (e.g. he's).
contractor n. person who makes a contract, esp. to conduct building operations.
contractual adj. of or in the nature of a contract. contractually adv.
contradict v. 1 deny (a statement). 2 deny a statement made by (a person). 3 be in opposition to or in conflict with. contradiction n. contradictory adj. [Latin dico dict- say]
contradistinction n. distinction made by contrasting.
contraflow n. transfer of traffic from its usual half of the road to the other half by borrowing one or more of the other half's lanes.
contralto n. (pl. -s) 1 lowest female singing-voice. 2 singer with this voice. [Italian: related to *contra-, *alto]
contraption n. machine or device, esp. a strange or cumbersome one. [origin unknown]
contrapuntal adj. Mus. of or in counterpoint. contrapuntally adv. [Italian]
contrariwise adv. 1 on the other hand. 2 in the opposite way. 3 perversely.
contrary -adj. 1 (usu. foll. by to) opposed in nature or tendency. 2 perverse, self-willed. 3 (of a wind) unfavourable, impeding. 4 opposite in position or direction. -n. (prec. by the) the opposite. -adv. (foll. by to) in opposition or contrast (contrary to expectations). on the contrary expressing denial of what has just been implied or stated. to the contrary to the opposite effect. contrariness n. [Latin: related to *contra-]
contrast -n. 1 a juxtaposition or comparison showing differences. b difference so revealed. 2 (often foll. by to) thing or person having different qualities. 3 degree of difference between the tones in a television picture or photograph. -v. (often foll. by with) 1 set together so as to reveal a contrast. 2 have or show a contrast. [Italian from Latin sto stand]
contravene v. (-ning) 1 infringe (a law etc.). 2 (of things) conflict with. contravention n. [Latin venio come]
contretemps n. (pl. same) 1 unfortunate occurrence. 2 unexpected mishap. [French]
contribute v. (-ting) (often foll. by to) 1 give (time, money, etc.) towards a common purpose. 2 help to bring about a result etc. 3 (also absol.) supply (an article etc.) for publication with others. contributor n. [Latin: related to *tribute]
Usage The second pronunciation, stressed on the first syllable, is considered incorrect by some people.
contribution n. 1 act of contributing. 2 thing contributed.
contributory adj. 1 that contributes. 2 using contributions.
contrite adj. penitent, feeling great guilt. contritely adv. contrition n. [Latin: related to *trite]
contrivance n. 1 something contrived, esp. a plan or mechanical device. 2 act of contriving.
contrive v. (-ving) 1 devise; plan or make resourcefully or with skill. 2 (often foll. by to + infin.) manage. [French from Latin]
contrived adj. artificial, forced.
control -n. 1 power of directing. 2 power of restraining, esp. self-restraint. 3 means of restraint. 4 (usu. in pl.) means of regulating. 5 (usu. in pl.) switches and other devices by which a machine is controlled. 6 place where something is controlled or verified. 7 standard of comparison for checking the results of an experiment. -v. (-ll-) 1 have control of, regulate. 2 hold in check. 3 check, verify. in control (often foll. by of) directing an activity. out of control no longer manageable. under control being controlled; in order. controllable adj. [medieval Latin, = keep copy of accounts: related to *contra-, *roll]
controller n. 1 person or thing that controls. 2 person in charge of expenditure.
control tower n. tall building at an airport etc. from which air traffic is controlled.
controversial adj. causing or subject to controversy. [Latin: related to *controvert]
controversy n. (pl. -ies) prolonged argument or dispute. [Latin: related to *controvert]
Usage The second pronunciation, stressed on the second syllable, is considered incorrect by some people.
controvert v. dispute, deny. [Latin verto vers- turn]
contumacious adj. stubbornly or wilfully disobedient. contumacy n. (pl. -ies). [Latin tumeo swell]
contumely n. 1 insolent language or treatment. 2 disgrace. [Latin: related to *contumacious]
contuse v. (-sing) bruise. contusion n. [Latin tundo tus- thump]
conundrum n. 1 riddle, esp. one with a pun in its answer. 2 hard question. [origin unknown]
conurbation n. extended urban area, esp. consisting of several towns and merging suburbs. [Latin urbs city]
convalesce v. (-cing) recover health after illness. [Latin valeo be well]
convalescent -adj. recovering from an illness. -n. convalescent person. convalescence n.
convection n. heat transfer by upward movement of a heated and less dense medium. [Latin veho vect- carry]
convector n. heating appliance that circulates warm air by convection.
convene v. (-ning) 1 summon or arrange (a meeting etc.). 2 assemble. [Latin venio vent- come]
convener n. (also convenor) 1 person who convenes a meeting. 2 senior trade union official at a workplace.
convenience n. 1 state of being convenient; suitability. 2 useful thing. 3 advantage. 4 lavatory, esp. a public one. at one's convenience at a time or place that suits one. [Latin: related to *convene]
convenience food n. food requiring little preparation.
convenient adj. 1 a serving one's comfort or interests. b suitable. c free of trouble or difficulty. 2 available or occurring at a suitable time or place. 3 well situated (convenient for the shops). conveniently adv.
convent n. 1 religious community, esp. of nuns, under vows. 2 premises occupied by this. [Latin: related to *convene]
conventicle n. esp. hist. secret or unlawful religious meeting, esp. of dissenters. [Latin: related to *convene]
convention n. 1 a general agreement on social behaviour etc. by implicit majority consent. b a custom or customary practice. 2 conference of people with a common interest. 3 a formal agreement, esp. between States. [Latin: related to *convene]
conventional adj. 1 depending on or according with convention. 2 (of a person) bound by social conventions. 3 usual; of agreed significance. 4 not spontaneous or sincere or original. 5 (of weapons etc.) non-nuclear. conventionalism n. conventionality n. (pl. -ies). conventionally adv.
converge v. (-ging) 1 come together or towards the same point. 2 (foll. by on, upon) approach from different directions. convergence n. convergent adj. [Latin vergo incline]
conversant adj. (foll. by with) well acquainted with. [French: related to *converse1]
conversation n. 1 informal spoken communication. 2 instance of this. [Latin: related to *converse1]
conversational adj. 1 of or in conversation. 2 colloquial. conversationally adv.
conversationalist n. person good at or fond of conversation.
converse1 v. (-sing) (often foll. by with) talk. [Latin: related to *convert]
converse2 -adj. opposite, contrary, reversed. -n. something, esp. a statement or proposition, that is opposite or reversed. conversely adv. [Latin: related to *convert]
conversion n. 1 converting or being converted. 2 converted building or part of this. [Latin: related to *convert]
convert -v. 1 (usu. foll. by into) change in form or function. 2 cause (a person) to change belief etc. 3 change (moneys etc.) into others of a different kind. 4 make structural alterations in (a building) for a new purpose. 5 (also absol.) Rugby score extra points from (a try) by a successful kick at the goal. -n. (often foll. by to) person converted to a different belief etc. [Latin verto vers- turn]
convertible -adj. able to be converted. -n. car with a folding or detachable roof. convertibility n. [Latin: related to *convert]
convex adj. curved like the exterior of a circle or sphere. convexity n. [Latin]
convey v. 1 transport or carry (goods, passengers, etc.). 2 communicate (an idea, meaning, etc.). 3 transfer the title to (a property). 4 transmit (sound etc.). conveyable adj. [Latin via way]
conveyance n. 1 conveying or being conveyed. 2 means of transport; vehicle. 3 Law a transfer of property. b document effecting this. conveyancer n. (in sense 3). conveyancing n. (in sense 3).
conveyor n. (also conveyer) person or thing that conveys.
conveyor belt n. endless moving belt for conveying articles, esp. in a factory.
convict -v. 1 (often foll. by of) prove to be guilty (of a crime etc.). 2 declare guilty by a legal process. -n. chiefly hist. person serving a prison sentence. [Latin vinco vict- conquer]
conviction n. 1 convicting or being convicted. 2 a being convinced. b firm belief. [Latin: related to *convict]
convince v. (-cing) firmly persuade. convincible adj. convincing adj. convincingly adv. [Latin: related to *convict]
convivial adj. fond of good company; sociable and lively. conviviality n. [Latin vivo live]
convocation n. 1 convoking or being convoked. 2 large formal gathering. [Latin: related to *convoke]
convoke v. (-king) formal call together; summon to assemble. [Latin voco call]
convoluted adj. 1 coiled, twisted. 2 complex. [Latin volvo volut- roll]
convolution n. 1 coiling. 2 coil or twist. 3 complexity. 4 sinuous fold in the surface of the brain.
convolvulus n. (pl. -luses) twining plant, esp. bindweed. [Latin]
convoy -n. group of ships, vehicles, etc., travelling together or under escort. -v. escort, esp. with armed force. in convoy as a group. [French: related to *convey]
convulse v. (-sing) 1 (usu. in passive) affect with convulsions. 2 cause to laugh uncontrollably. convulsive adj. convulsively adv. [Latin vello vuls- pull]
convulsion n. 1 (usu. in pl.) violent irregular motion of the limbs or body caused by involuntary contraction of muscles. 2 violent disturbance. 3 (in pl.) uncontrollable laughter.
cony n. (also coney) rabbit fur. [Latin cuniculus]
coo -n. soft murmuring sound as of a dove. -v. (coos, cooed) 1 emit a coo. 2 talk or say in a soft or amorous voice. -int. slang expressing surprise or disbelief. [imitative]
cooee n. & int. colloq. call used to attract attention. [imitative]
cook -v. 1 prepare (food) by heating it. 2 (of food) undergo cooking. 3 colloq. falsify (accounts etc.). 4 (as be cooking) colloq. be happening or about to happen. -n. person who cooks, esp. professionally or in a specified way (a good cook). cook up colloq. concoct (a story, excuse, etc.). [Latin coquus]
cookbook n. US cookery book.
cook-chill attrib. adj. (of food, meals, etc.) sold in pre-cooked and refrigerated form.
cooker n. 1 appliance or vessel for cooking food. 2 fruit (esp. an apple) suitable for cooking.
cookery n. art or practice of cooking.
cookery book n. book containing recipes.
cookie n. US 1 sweet biscuit. 2 colloq. person (a tough cookie). [Dutch koekje]
cool -adj. 1 of or at a fairly low temperature, fairly cold. 2 suggesting or achieving coolness. 3 calm, unexcited. 4 lacking enthusiasm. 5 unfriendly (a cool reception). 6 calmly audacious. 7 (prec. by a) colloq. at least (cost a cool thousand). 8 slang esp. US marvellous. -n. 1 coolness. 2 cool air or place. 3 slang calmness, composure. -v. (often foll. by down, off) make or become cool. cool it slang relax, calm down. coolly adv. coolness n. [Old English]
coolant n. cooling agent, esp. fluid.
cool-bag n. (also cool-box) insulated container for keeping food cool.
cooler n. 1 vessel in which a thing is cooled. 2 US refrigerator. 3 slang prison cell.
coolie n. unskilled native labourer in Eastern countries. [perhaps from Kuli, tribe in India]
cooling-off period n. interval to allow for a change of mind.
cooling tower n. tall structure for cooling hot water before reuse, esp. in industry.
coomb n. (also combe) 1 valley on the side of a hill. 2 short valley running up from the coast. [Old English]
coon n. 1 US racoon. 2 slang offens. Black. [abbreviation]
coop -n. cage for keeping poultry. -v. (often foll. by up, in) confine (a person). [Latin cupa cask]
co-op n. colloq. cooperative society or shop. [abbreviation]
cooper n. maker or repairer of casks, barrels, etc. [Low German or Dutch: related to *coop]
cooperate v. (also co-operate) (-ting) 1 (often foll. by with) work or act together. 2 be helpful and do as one is asked. cooperation n. [related to *co-]
cooperative (also co-operative) -adj. 1 willing to cooperate. 2 of or characterized by cooperation. 3 (of a business) owned and run jointly by its members, with profits shared. -n. cooperative farm, society, or business.
co-opt v. appoint to membership of a body by invitation of the existing members. co-option n. co-optive adj. [Latin coopto from opto choose]
coordinate (also co-ordinate) -v. (-ting) 1 cause (parts, movements, etc.) to function together efficiently. 2 work or act together effectively. -adj. equal in rank or importance. -n. 1 Math. each of a system of values used to fix the position of a point, line, or plane. 2 (in pl.) matching items of clothing. coordination n. coordinator n. [Latin ordino: related to *order]
coot n. 1 black aquatic bird with a white horny plate on its forehead. 2 colloq. stupid person. [probably Low German]
cop slang -n. 1 police officer. 2 capture or arrest (it's a fair cop). -v. (-pp-) 1 catch or arrest (an offender). 2 receive, suffer. 3 take, seize. cop it get into trouble; be punished. cop out 1 withdraw; give up. 2 go back on a promise. not much cop of little value or use. [French caper seize]
copal n. resin of a tropical tree, used for varnish. [Spanish from Aztec]
copartner n. partner or associate. copartnership n.
cope1 v. (-ping) (often foll. by with) deal effectively or contend; manage. [French: related to *coup]
cope2 -n. priest's long cloaklike vestment. -v. (-ping) cover with a cope or coping. [Latin cappa *cap]
copeck n. (also kopek, kopeck) Russian coin worth one-hundredth of a rouble. [Russian kopeika]
Copernican system n. theory that the planets (including the earth) move round the sun. [Copernicus, name of an astronomer]
copier n. machine that copies (esp. documents).
copilot n. second pilot in an aircraft.
coping n. top (usu. sloping) course of masonry in a wall. [from *cope2]
coping saw n. D-shaped saw for cutting curves in wood. [from *cope1]
coping-stone n. stone used in coping.
copious adj. 1 abundant. 2 producing much. copiously adv. [Latin copia plenty]
cop-out n. cowardly evasion.
copper1 -n. 1 malleable red-brown metallic element. 2 bronze coin. 3 large metal vessel for boiling esp. laundry. -adj. made of or coloured like copper. -v. cover with copper. [Latin cuprum]
copper2 n. slang police officer. [from *cop]
copper beech n. variety of beech with copper-coloured leaves.
copper-bottomed adj. 1 having a bottom sheathed with copper. 2 genuine or reliable.
copperhead n. venomous N. American or Australian snake.
copperplate n. 1 a polished copper plate for engraving or etching. b print made from this. 2 ornate style of handwriting.
coppice n. area of undergrowth and small trees. [medieval Latin: related to *coup]
copra n. dried coconut-kernels. [Portuguese from Malayalam]
copse n. = *coppice. [shortened form]
Copt n. 1 native Egyptian in the Hellenistic and Roman periods. 2 native Christian of the independent Egyptian Church. [French from Arabic]
Coptic -n. language of the Copts. -adj. of the Copts.
copula n. (pl. -s) connecting word, esp. part of the verb be connecting subject and predicate. [Latin]
copulate v. (-ting) (often foll. by with) (esp. of animals) have sexual intercourse. copulation n.
copy -n. (pl. -ies) 1 thing made to imitate another. 2 single specimen of a publication or issue. 3 material to be printed, esp. regarded as good etc. reading matter (the crisis will make exciting copy). -v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make a copy of. 2 imitate, do the same as. [Latin copia transcript]
copybook n. 1 book containing models of handwriting for learners to imitate. 2 (attrib.) a tritely conventional. b exemplary.
copycat n. colloq. person who copies another, esp. slavishly.
copyist n. person who makes (esp. written) copies.
copyright -n. exclusive legal right to print, publish, perform, film, or record material. -adj. protected by copyright. -v. secure copyright for (material).
copy-typist n. typist who types from documents rather than dictation.
copywriter n. person who writes or prepares advertising copy for publication.
coq au vin n. casserole of chicken pieces in wine. [French]
coquette n. woman who flirts. coquetry n. (pl. -ies). coquettish adj. [French diminutive: related to *cock1]
cor int. slang expressing surprise etc. [corruption of God]
cor- see *com-.
coracle n. small boat of wickerwork covered with watertight material. [Welsh]
coral -n. hard red, pink, or white calcareous substance secreted by marine polyps for support and habitation. -adj. 1 red or pink, like coral. 2 made of coral. [Greek korallion]
coral island n. (also coral reef) island (or reef) formed by the growth of coral.
coralline -n. seaweed with a hard jointed stem. -adj. of or like coral. [French and Italian: related to *coral]
cor anglais n. (pl. cors anglais) alto woodwind instrument of the oboe family. [French]
corbel n. projection of stone, timber, etc., jutting out from a wall to support a weight. corbelled adj. [Latin corvus crow]
cord -n. 1 a flexible material like thick string, made from twisted strands. b piece of this. 2 similar structure in the body. 3 a ribbed fabric, esp. corduroy. b (in pl.) corduroy trousers. 4 electric flex. -v. 1 fasten or bind with cord. 2 (as corded adj.) (of cloth) ribbed. [Greek khorde string]
cordial -adj. 1 heartfelt. 2 friendly. -n. fruit-flavoured drink. cordiality n. cordially adv. [Latin cor cord- heart]
cordite n. smokeless explosive. [from *cord, because of its appearance]
cordless adj. (of a hand-held electrical device) usable without a power cable because working from an internal source of energy or battery.
cordon -n. 1 line or circle of police, soldiers, guards, etc., esp. preventing access. 2 ornamental cord or braid. 3 fruit-tree trained to grow as a single stem. -v. (often foll. by off) enclose or separate with a cordon of police etc. [Italian and French: related to *cord]
cordon bleu Cookery -adj. of the highest class. -n. cook of this class. [French]
cordon sanitaire n. 1 guarded line between infected and uninfected districts. 2 measure designed to prevent the spread of undesirable influences.
corduroy n. 1 thick cotton fabric with velvety ribs. 2 (in pl.) corduroy trousers. [cord = ribbed fabric]
core -n. 1 horny central part of certain fruits, containing the seeds. 2 central or most important part of anything (also attrib.: core curriculum). 3 inner central region of the earth. 4 part of a nuclear reactor containing fissile material. 5 hist. structural unit in a computer, storing one bit of data (see *bit4). 6 inner strand of an electric cable. 7 piece of soft iron forming the centre of an electromagnet or induction coil. -v. (-ring) remove the core from. corer n. [origin unknown]
co-respondent n. person cited in a divorce case as having committed adultery with the respondent.
corgi n. (pl. -s) dog of a short-legged breed with a foxlike head. [Welsh]
coriander n. 1 aromatic plant. 2 its seeds used for flavouring. [Greek koriannon]
Corinthian adj. 1 of ancient Corinth in southern Greece. 2 Archit. of the order characterized by ornate decoration and acanthus leaves. [Latin from Greek]
cork -n. 1 buoyant light-brown bark of a S. European oak. 2 bottle-stopper of cork etc. 3 float of cork. 4 (attrib.) made of cork. -v. (often foll. by up) 1 stop or confine. 2 restrain (feelings etc.). [Spanish alcorque]
corkage n. charge made by a restaurant etc. for serving a customer's own wine etc.
corked adj. 1 stopped with a cork. 2 (of wine) spoilt by a decayed cork.
corker n. slang excellent person or thing.
corkscrew -n. 1 spiral device for extracting corks from bottles. 2 (often attrib.) thing with a spiral shape. -v. move spirally; twist.
corm n. underground swollen stem base of some plants. [Greek kormos lopped tree-trunk]
cormorant n. diving sea bird with black plumage. [Latin corvus marinus sea-raven]
corn1 n. 1 a cereal before or after harvesting, esp. the chief crop of a region. b grain or seed of a cereal plant. 2 colloq. something corny or trite. [Old English]
corn2 n. small tender area of horny skin, esp. on the toe. [Latin cornu horn]
corn-cob n. cylindrical centre of a maize ear on which the grains grow.
corncrake n. rail inhabiting grassland and nesting on the ground.
corn dolly n. figure of plaited straw.
cornea n. transparent circular part of the front of the eyeball. corneal adj. [medieval Latin: related to *corn2]
corned adj. (esp. of beef) preserved in salt or brine. [from *corn1]
cornelian n. (also carnelian) dull red variety of chalcedony. [French]
corner -n. 1 place where converging sides or edges meet. 2 projecting angle, esp. where two streets meet. 3 internal space or recess formed by the meeting of two sides, esp. of a room. 4 difficult position, esp. one with no escape. 5 secluded place. 6 region or quarter, esp. a remote one. 7 action or result of buying or controlling the whole stock of a commodity. 8 Boxing & Wrestling corner of the ring where a contestant rests between rounds. 9 Football & Hockey free kick or hit from the corner of a pitch. -v. 1 force into a difficult or inescapable position. 2 establish a corner in (a commodity). 3 (esp. of or in a vehicle) go round a corner. [Latin: related to *corn2]
cornerstone n. 1 a stone in the projecting angle of a wall. b foundation-stone. 2 indispensable part or basis.
cornet n. 1 brass instrument resembling a trumpet but shorter and wider. 2 conical wafer for holding ice-cream. cornetist n. (also cornettist). [Latin cornu: related to *corn2]
cornflake n. 1 (in pl.) breakfast cereal of toasted maize flakes. 2 flake of this cereal.
cornflour n. fine-ground flour, esp. of maize or rice.
cornflower n. plant with deep-blue flowers originally growing among corn.
cornice n. ornamental moulding, esp. round a room just below the ceiling or as the topmost part of an entablature. [French from Italian]
Cornish -adj. of Cornwall. -n. Celtic language of Cornwall.
Cornish pasty n. pastry envelope containing meat and vegetables.
corn on the cob n. maize cooked and eaten from the corn-cob.
cornucopia n. 1 horn overflowing with flowers, fruit, and corn, as a symbol of plenty. 2 abundant supply. [Latin: related to *corn2, *copious]
corny adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. 1 banal. 2 feebly humorous. 3 sentimental. cornily adv. corniness n. [from *corn1]
corolla n. whorl of petals forming the inner envelope of a flower. [Latin diminutive of *corona]
corollary n. (pl. -ies) 1 proposition that follows from one already proved. 2 (often foll. by of) natural consequence. [Latin, = gratuity: related to *corolla]
corona n. (pl. -nae) 1 a halo round the sun or moon. b gaseous envelope of the sun, seen as an area of light around the moon during a total solar eclipse. 2 Anat. crownlike structure. 3 crownlike outgrowth from the inner side of a corolla. 4 glow around an electric conductor. coronal adj. [Latin, = crown]
coronary -adj. Anat. resembling or encircling like a crown. -n. (pl. -ies) = *coronary thrombosis. [Latin: related to *corona]
coronary artery n. artery supplying blood to the heart.
coronary thrombosis n. blockage caused by a blood clot in a coronary artery.
coronation n. ceremony of crowning a sovereign or consort. [medieval Latin: related to *corona]
coroner n. official holding inquests on deaths thought to be violent or accidental. [Anglo-French: related to *crown]
coronet n. 1 small crown. 2 circlet of precious materials, esp. as a headdress. [French diminutive: related to *crown]
corpora pl. of *corpus.
corporal1 n. non-commissioned army or air-force officer ranking next below sergeant. [French from Italian]
corporal2 adj. of the human body. corporality n. [Latin corpus body]
corporal punishment n. physical punishment.
corporate adj. 1 forming a corporation. 2 of, belonging to, or united in a group. [Latin: related to *corporal2]
corporation n. 1 group of people authorized to act as an individual, esp. in business. 2 municipal authorities of a borough, town, or city. 3 joc. large stomach.
corporative adj. 1 of a corporation. 2 governed by or organized in corporations.
corporeal adj. bodily, physical, material. corporeality n. corporeally adv. [Latin: related to *corporal2]
corps n. (pl. corps) 1 a body of troops with special duties (intelligence corps). b main subdivision of an army in the field. 2 body of people engaged in a special activity (diplomatic corps). [French: related to *corpse]
corps de ballet n. group of ensemble dancers in a ballet. [French]
corpse n. dead body. [Latin: related to *corpus]
corpulent adj. physically bulky, fat. corpulence n. [Latin: related to *corpus]
corpus n. (pl. -pora) body or collection of writings, texts, etc. [Latin, = body]
corpuscle n. minute body or cell in an organism, esp. (in pl.) the red or white cells in the blood of vertebrates. corpuscular adj. [Latin diminutive of *corpus]
corral -n. 1 US pen for cattle, horses, etc. 2 enclosure for capturing wild animals. -v. (-ll-) put or keep in a corral. [Spanish and Portuguese: related to *kraal]
correct -adj. 1 true, accurate. 2 proper, in accordance with taste or a standard. -v. 1 set right; amend. 2 mark errors in. 3 substitute a right thing for (a wrong one). 4 a admonish (a person). b punish (a person or fault). 5 counteract (a harmful quality). 6 adjust (an instrument etc.). correctly adv. correctness n. corrector n. [Latin rego rect- guide]
correction n. 1 correcting or being corrected. 2 thing substituted for what is wrong. 3 archaic punishment. correctional adj. [Latin: related to *correct]
correctitude n. consciously correct behaviour. [from *correct, *rectitude]
corrective -adj. serving to correct or counteract something harmful. -n. corrective measure or thing. [Latin: related to *correct]
correlate -v. (-ting) (usu. foll. by with, to) have or bring into a mutual relation or dependence. -n. each of two related or complementary things. correlation n. [medieval Latin correlatio]
correlative -adj. 1 (often foll. by with, to) having a mutual relation. 2 (of words) corresponding to each other and used together (as neither and nor). -n. correlative word or thing.
correspond v. 1 a (usu. foll. by to) be similar or equivalent. b (usu. foll. by with, to) be in agreement, not contradict. 2 (usu. foll. by with) exchange letters. correspondingly adv. [French from medieval Latin]
correspondence n. 1 agreement or similarity. 2 a exchange of letters. b letters.
correspondence course n. course of study conducted by post.
correspondent n. 1 person who writes letters. 2 person employed to write or report for a newspaper or for broadcasting etc.
corridor n. 1 passage giving access into rooms. 2 passage in a train giving access into compartments. 3 strip of territory of one State passing through that of another. 4 route which an aircraft must follow, esp. over a foreign country. [French from Italian]
corridors of power n.pl. places where covert influence is said to be exerted in government.
corrigendum n. (pl. -da) error to be corrected. [Latin corrigo: related to *correct]
corrigible adj. 1 able to be corrected. 2 submissive. corrigibly adv. [medieval Latin: related to *corrigendum]
corroborate v. (-ting) confirm or give support to (a statement or belief etc.). corroboration n. corroborative adj. corroborator n. [Latin robur strength]
corrode v. (-ding) 1 a wear away, esp. by chemical action. b decay. 2 destroy gradually. [Latin rodo ros- gnaw]
corrosion n. 1 corroding or being corroded. 2 corroded area. corrosive adj. & n.
corrugate v. (-ting) (esp. as corrugated adj.) form into alternate ridges and grooves, esp. to strengthen (corrugated iron). corrugation n. [Latin ruga wrinkle]
corrupt -adj. 1 dishonest, esp. using bribery. 2 immoral; wicked. 3 (of a text etc.) made unreliable by errors or alterations. -v. make or become corrupt. corruptible adj. corruptibility n. corruption n. corruptive adj. corruptly adv. corruptness n. [Latin rumpo rupt- break]
corsage n. small bouquet worn by women. [French: related to *corpse]
corsair n. 1 pirate ship. 2 pirate. [French: related to *course]
corselette n. combined corset and bra. [French corslet armour covering trunk]
corset n. closely-fitting undergarment worn to shape the body or to support it after injury. corsetry n. [French diminutive: related to *corpse]
cortège n. procession, esp. for a funeral. [French]
cortex n. (pl. -tices) outer part of an organ, esp. of the brain or kidneys. cortical adj. [Latin, = bark]
cortisone n. hormone used esp. in treating inflammation and allergy. [abbreviation of chemical name]
corundum n. extremely hard crystallized alumina, used esp. as an abrasive. [Tamil from Sanskrit]
coruscate v. (-ting) sparkle. coruscation n. [Latin]
corvette n. 1 small naval escort-vessel. 2 hist. warship with one tier of guns. [French from Dutch]
corymb n. flat-topped cluster of flowers with the outer flower-stalks proportionally longer. [Latin from Greek]
cos1 n. lettuce with crisp narrow leaves. [Kos, Greek island]
cos2 abbr. cosine.
cos3 conj. colloq. because. [abbreviation]
cosec abbr. cosecant.
cosecant n. Math. ratio of the hypotenuse (in a right-angled triangle) to the side opposite an acute angle.
cosh1 colloq. -n. heavy blunt weapon. -v. hit with a cosh. [origin unknown]
cosh2 abbr. hyperbolic cosine.
co-signatory n. (pl. -ies) person or State signing a treaty etc. jointly with others.
cosine n. ratio of the side adjacent to an acute angle (in a right-angled triangle) to the hypotenuse.
cosmetic -adj. 1 beautifying, enhancing. 2 superficially improving or beneficial. 3 (of surgery or a prosthesis) imitating, restoring, or enhancing normal appearance. -n. cosmetic preparation, esp. for the face. cosmetically adv. [Greek, = ornament]
cosmic adj. 1 of the cosmos or its scale; universal (of cosmic significance). 2 of or for space travel.
cosmic rays n.pl. high-energy radiations from space etc.
cosmogony n. (pl. -ies) 1 origin of the universe. 2 theory about this. [Greek -gonia -begetting]
cosmology n. science or theory of the universe. cosmological adj. cosmologist n. [from *cosmos, *-logy]
cosmonaut n. Soviet astronaut. [from *cosmos, Greek nautes sailor]
cosmopolitan -adj. 1 of, from, or knowing many parts of the world. 2 free from national limitations or prejudices. -n. cosmopolitan person. cosmopolitanism n. [Greek polites citizen]
cosmos n. the universe as a well-ordered whole. [Greek]
Cossack n. member of a people of southern Russia. [Turki quzzaq]
cosset v. (-t-) pamper. [dialect cosset = pet lamb, probably from Old English, = cottager]
cost -v. (past and past part. cost) 1 be obtainable for (a sum of money); have as a price. 2 involve as a loss or sacrifice (it cost him his life). 3 (past and past part. costed) fix or estimate the cost of. -n. 1 what a thing costs; price. 2 loss or sacrifice. 3 (in pl.) legal expenses. at all costs (or at any cost) whatever the cost or risk may be. [Latin consto stand at a price]
costal adj. of the ribs. [Latin costa rib]
cost-effective adj. effective in relation to its cost.
costermonger n. person who sells produce from a barrow. [costard large apple: related to *costal]
costing n. estimation of cost(s).
costive adj. constipated. [Latin: related to *constipate]
costly adj. (-ier, -iest) costing much; expensive. costliness n.
cost of living n. level of prices esp. of basic necessities.
cost price n. price paid for a thing by one who later sells it.
costume -n. 1 style of dress, esp. of a particular place or time. 2 set of clothes. 3 clothing for a particular activity (swimming-costume). 4 actor's clothes for a part. -v. (-ming) provide with a costume. [Latin: related to *custom]
costume jewellery n. artificial jewellery.
costumier n. person who makes or deals in costumes. [French: related to *costume]
cosy (US cozy) -adj. (-ier, -iest) comfortable and warm; snug. -n. (pl. -ies) cover to keep a teapot etc. hot. cosily adv. cosiness n. [origin unknown]
cot1 n. 1 small bed with high sides for a baby. 2 small light bed. [Hindi]
cot2 n. 1 small shelter; cote. 2 poet. cottage. [Old English]
cot3 abbr. cotangent.
cotangent n. ratio of the side adjacent to an acute angle (in a right-angled triangle) to the opposite side.
cot-death n. unexplained death of a sleeping baby.
cote n. shelter for animals or birds. [Old English]
coterie n. exclusive group of people sharing interests. [French]
cotoneaster n. shrub bearing usu. bright red berries. [Latin cotoneum *quince]
cottage n. small simple house, esp. in the country. [Anglo-French: related to *cot2]
cottage cheese n. soft white lumpy cheese made from skimmed milk curds.
cottage industry n. business activity carried on at home.
cottage pie n. dish of minced meat topped with mashed potato.
cottager n. person who lives in a cottage.
cotter n. 1 bolt or wedge for securing parts of machinery etc. 2 (in full cotter pin) split pin that can be opened after passing through a hole. [origin unknown]
cotton n. 1 soft white fibrous substance covering the seeds of certain plants. 2 such a plant. 3 thread or cloth from this. cotton on (often foll. by to) colloq. begin to understand. [French from Arabic]
cotton wool n. fluffy wadding of a kind orig. made from raw cotton.
cotyledon n. embryonic leaf in seed-bearing plants. [Greek kotule cup]
couch1 -n. 1 upholstered piece of furniture for several people; sofa. 2 long padded seat with a headrest at one end. -v. 1 (foll. by in) express in (certain terms). 2 archaic (of an animal) lie, esp. in its lair. [Latin colloco lay in place]
couch2 n. (in full couch grass) a grass with long creeping roots. [var. of *quitch]
couchette n. 1 railway carriage with seats convertible into sleeping-berths. 2 berth in this. [French, = little bed]
couch potato n. US slang person who likes lazing at home.
cougar n. US puma. [French from Guarani]
cough -v. 1 expel air etc. from the lungs with a sudden sharp sound. 2 (of an engine etc.) make a similar sound. 3 slang confess. -n. 1 act of coughing. 2 condition of respiratory organs causing coughing. cough up 1 eject with coughs. 2 slang bring out or give (money or information) reluctantly. [imitative, related to Dutch kuchen]
cough mixture n. liquid medicine to relieve a cough.
could past of *can1. -v. colloq. feel inclined to (I could murder him).
couldn't contr. could not.
coulomb n. SI unit of electric charge. [Coulomb, name of a physicist]
coulter n. (US colter) vertical blade in front of a ploughshare. [Latin culter knife]
council n. 1 a advisory, deliberative, or administrative body. b meeting of such a body. 2 a local administrative body of a parish, district, town, etc. b (attrib.) provided by a local council (council flat). [Latin concilium]
councillor n. member of a (esp. local) council.
council tax n. proposed new local tax based on the value of a property and the number of people living in it, to replace the community charge.
counsel -n. 1 advice, esp. formally given. 2 consultation for advice. 3 (pl. same) legal adviser, esp. a barrister; body of these. -v. (-ll-; US -l-) 1 advise (a person). 2 give esp. professional advice to (a person) on personal problems. 3 recommend (a course of action). keep one's own counsel not confide in others. take counsel (usu. foll. by with) consult. counselling n. [Latin consilium]
counsellor n. (US counselor) 1 adviser. 2 person giving professional guidance on personal problems. 3 US barrister.
counsel of perfection n. ideal but impracticable advice.
counselor n. (Brit. counsellor) 1 adviser. 2 person giving professional guidance on personal problems. 3 US barrister.
count1 -v. 1 determine the total number of, esp. by assigning successive numbers. 2 repeat numbers in ascending order. 3 (often foll. by in) include or be included in one's reckoning or plan. 4 consider or regard to be (lucky etc.). 5 (often foll. by for) have value; matter (my opinion counts for little). -n. 1 a counting or being counted. b total of reckoning. 2 Law each charge in an indictment. count against be reckoned to the disadvantage of. count one's blessings be grateful for what one has. count on (or upon) rely on; expect. count out 1 count while taking from a stock. 2 complete a count of ten seconds over (a fallen boxer etc.). 3 colloq. exclude, disregard. 4 Polit. procure the adjournment of (the House of Commons) when fewer than 40 members are present. count up find the sum of. keep count take note of how many there have been etc. lose count forget the number etc. counted. out for the count 1 defeated. 2 unconscious; asleep. [Latin: related to *compute]
count2 n. foreign noble corresponding to an earl. [Latin comes companion]
countable adj. 1 that can be counted. 2 Gram. (of a noun) that can form a plural or be used with the indefinite article.
countdown n. 1 act of counting backwards to zero, esp. at the launching of a rocket etc. 2 period immediately before an event.
countenance -n. 1 the face or facial expression. 2 composure. 3 moral support. -v. (-cing) support, approve. [French: related to *contain]
counter1 n. 1 long flat-topped fitment in a shop etc., across which business is conducted. 2 a small disc for playing or scoring in board-games etc. b token representing a coin. 3 apparatus for counting. under the counter surreptitiously, esp. illegally. [related to *count1]
counter2 -v. 1 a oppose, contradict. b meet by countermove. 2 Boxing give a return blow while parrying. -adv. in the opposite direction or manner. -adj. opposite. -n. parry; countermove. [related to *counter-]
counter- comb. form denoting: 1 retaliation, opposition, or rivalry (counter-threat). 2 opposite direction (counter-clockwise). 3 correspondence (counterpart; countersign). [Latin contra against]
counteract v. hinder or neutralize by contrary action. counteraction n. counteractive adj.
counter-attack -n. attack in reply to a preceding attack. -v. attack in reply.
counterbalance -n. weight or influence balancing another. -v. (-cing) act as a counterbalance to.
counter-clockwise adv. & adj. US = *anticlockwise.
counter-espionage n. action taken against enemy spying.
counterfeit -adj. made in imitation; not genuine; forged. -n. a forgery or imitation. -v. imitate fraudulently; forge. [French]
counterfoil n. part of a cheque, receipt, etc., retained by the payer as a record. [from *foil2]
counter-intelligence n. = *counter-espionage.
countermand -v. 1 revoke (a command). 2 recall by a contrary order. -n. order revoking a previous one. [Latin: related to *mandate]
countermeasure n. action taken to counteract a danger, threat, etc.
countermove n. move or action in opposition to another.
counterpane n. bedspread. [medieval Latin culcita puncta quilted mattress]
counterpart n. 1 person or thing like another or forming the complement or equivalent to another. 2 duplicate.
counterpoint n. 1 a art or practice of combining melodies according to fixed rules. b melody combined with another. 2 contrasting argument, plot, literary theme, etc. [medieval Latin contrapunctum marked opposite]
counterpoise -n. 1 counterbalance. 2 state of equilibrium. -v. (-sing) counterbalance. [Latin pensum weight]
counter-productive adj. having the opposite of the desired effect.
counter-revolution n. revolution opposing a former one or reversing its results.
countersign -v. add a signature to (a document already signed by another). -n. 1 password spoken to a person on guard. 2 mark used for identification etc. [Italian: related to *sign]
countersink v. (past and past part. -sunk) 1 shape (the rim of a hole) so that a screw or bolt can be inserted flush with the surface. 2 sink (a screw etc.) in such a hole.
counter-tenor n. 1 male alto singing-voice. 2 singer with this voice. [Italian: related to *contra-]
countervail v. literary 1 counterbalance. 2 (often foll. by against) oppose, usu. successfully. [Latin valeo have worth]
counterweight n. counterbalancing weight.
countess n. 1 wife or widow of a count or earl. 2 woman holding the rank of count or earl. [Latin comitissa: related to *count2]
countless adj. too many to be counted.
countrified adj. rustic in manner or appearance.
country n. (pl. -ies) 1 territory of a nation; State. 2 (often attrib.) rural districts as opposed to towns or the capital. 3 land of a person's birth or citizenship. 4 region with regard to its aspect, associations, etc. (mountainous country; Hardy country). 5 national population, esp. as voters. [medieval Latin contrata (terra) (land) lying opposite]
country-and-western n. type of folk music originated by Whites in the southern US.
country club n. sporting and social club in a rural setting.
country dance n. traditional dance, esp. English, usu. with couples facing each other in lines.
countryman n. (fem. countrywoman) 1 person living in a rural area. 2 (also fellow-countryman) person of one's own country.
country music n. = *country-and-western.
countryside n. rural areas.
country-wide adj. & adv. extending throughout a nation.
county -n. (pl. -ies) 1 territorial division in some countries, forming the chief unit of local administration. 2 US political and administrative division of a State. -adj. of or like the gentry. [Latin comitatus: related to *count2]
county council n. elected governing body of an administrative county.
county court n. judicial court for civil cases.
county town n. administrative capital of a county.
coup n. (pl. -s) 1 successful stroke or move. 2 = *coup d'état. [medieval Latin colpus blow]
coup de grâce n. finishing stroke. [French]
coup d'état n. (pl. coups d'état pronunc. same) violent or illegal seizure of power. [French]
coupe n. (Brit. coupé) car with a hard roof, two doors, and usu. a sloping rear. [French couper cut]
coupé n. (US coupe) car with a hard roof, two doors, and usu. a sloping rear. [French couper cut]
couple -n. 1 a two (a couple of girls). b about two (a couple of hours). 2 a two people who are married to, or in a sexual relationship with, each other. b pair of partners in a dance etc. -v. (-ling) 1 link together. 2 associate in thought or speech. 3 copulate. [Latin *copula]
couplet n. two successive lines of verse, usu. rhyming and of the same length. [French diminutive: related to *couple]
coupling n. 1 link connecting railway carriages etc. 2 device for connecting parts of machinery.
coupon n. 1 form etc. as an application for a purchase etc. 2 entry form for a football pool or other competition. 3 discount voucher given with a purchase. [French couper cut]
courage n. ability to disregard fear; bravery. courage of one's convictions courage to act on one's beliefs. [Latin cor heart]
courageous adj. brave. courageously adv.
courgette n. small vegetable marrow. [French]
courier n. 1 person employed to guide and assist tourists. 2 special messenger. [Latin curro curs- run]
course -n. 1 onward movement or progression. 2 direction taken (changed course). 3 stretch of land or water for races; golf-course. 4 series of lessons etc. in a particular subject. 5 each successive part of a meal. 6 sequence of medical treatment etc. 7 line of conduct. 8 continuous horizontal layer of masonry, brick, etc. 9 channel in which water flows. -v. (-sing) 1 (esp. of liquid) run, esp. fast. 2 (also absol.) use hounds to hunt (esp. hares). in course of in the process of. in the course of during. of course naturally; as is or was to be expected; admittedly. [Latin cursus: related to *courier]
courser n. poet. swift horse.
court -n. 1 (in full court of law) a judicial body hearing legal cases. b = *courtroom. 2 quadrangular area for games (tennis-court; squash-court). 3 a yard surrounded by houses with entry from the street. b = *courtyard. 4 a the residence, retinue, and courtiers of a sovereign. b sovereign and councillors, constituting the ruling power. c assembly held by a sovereign; State reception. 5 attention paid to a person whose favour etc. is sought (paid court to her). -v. 1 a try to win affection or favour of. b pay amorous attention to. 2 seek to win (applause, fame, etc.). 3 invite (misfortune) by one's actions. go to court take legal action. out of court 1 without reaching trial. 2 not worthy of consideration. [Latin: related to *cohort]
court-card n. playing-card that is a king, queen, or jack.
courteous adj. polite, considerate. courteously adv. courteousness n. [French: related to *court]
courtesan n. prostitute, esp. one with wealthy or upper-class clients. [Italian: related to *court]
courtesy n. (pl. -ies) courteous behaviour or act. by courtesy of with the formal permission of. [French: related to *courteous]
courtesy light n. light in a car switched on by opening a door.
court-house n. 1 building in which a judicial court is held. 2 US building containing the administrative offices of a county.
courtier n. person who attends a sovereign's court. [Anglo-French: related to *court]
courtly adj. (-ier, -iest) dignified, refined. courtliness n.
court martial -n. (pl. courts martial) judicial court trying members of the armed services. -v. (court-martial) (-ll-; US -l-) try by this.
court order n. direction issued by a court or judge.
courtroom n. room in which a court of law meets.
courtship n. 1 courting, wooing. 2 courting behaviour of animals, birds, etc.
court shoe n. woman's light, usu. high-heeled, shoe with a low-cut upper.
courtyard n. area enclosed by walls or buildings.
couscous n. N. African dish of crushed wheat or coarse flour steamed over broth, often with meat or fruit added. [French from Arabic]
cousin n. 1 (also first cousin) child of one's uncle or aunt. 2 person of a kindred race or nation. [Latin consobrinus]
Usage There is often some confusion as to the difference between cousin, first cousin, second cousin, first cousin once removed, etc. For definitions see cousin, second cousin and remove v. 5.
couture n. design and manufacture of fashionable clothes. [French]
couturier n. fashion designer.
cove1 -n. 1 small bay or creek. 2 sheltered recess. 3 moulding, esp. at the junction of a wall and a ceiling. -v. (-ving) 1 provide (a room etc.) with a cove. 2 slope (the sides of a fireplace) inwards. [Old English]
cove2 n. slang fellow, chap. [cant: origin unknown]
coven n. assembly of witches. [related to *convent]
covenant -n. 1 agreement; contract. 2 Law sealed contract, esp. a deed of covenant. 3 (Covenant) Bibl. agreement between God and the Israelites. -v. agree, esp. by legal covenant. [French: related to *convene]
Coventry n. send a person to Coventry refuse to associate with or speak to a person. [Coventry in England]
cover -v. 1 (often foll. by with) protect or conceal with a cloth, lid, etc. 2 a extend over; occupy the whole surface of. b (often foll. by with) strew thickly or thoroughly. c lie over. 3 a protect; clothe. b (as covered adj.) wearing a hat; having a roof. 4 include; comprise; deal with. 5 travel (a specified distance). 6 describe as a reporter. 7 be enough to defray (£20 should cover it). 8 a refl. take measures to protect oneself. b (absol.; foll. by for) stand in for. 9 a aim a gun etc. at. b (of a fortress, guns, etc.) command (territory). c protect (an exposed person etc.) by being able to return fire. 10 a esp. Cricket stand behind (another player) to stop any missed balls. b mark (an opposing player). 11 (of a stallion etc.) copulate with. -n. 1 thing that covers, esp.: a lid. b book's binding. c either board of this. d envelope or wrapping (under separate cover). 2 shelter. 3 a pretence; screen. b pretended identity. c Mil. supporting force protecting an advance party from attack. 4 a funds, esp. obtainable from insurance to meet a liability or secure against loss. b insurance protection (third-party cover). 5 person acting as a substitute. 6 place-setting at table. 7 Cricket = *cover-point. cover up completely cover or conceal. take cover find shelter. [Latin cooperio]
coverage n. 1 area or amount covered. 2 amount of publicity received by an event etc.
coverall n. esp. US 1 thing that covers entirely. 2 (usu. in pl.) full-length protective garment.
cover charge n. service charge per head in a restaurant, nightclub, etc.
cover girl n. female model appearing on magazine covers etc.
covering letter n. (also covering note) explanatory letter sent with an enclosure.
coverlet n. bedspread. [Anglo-French: related to *cover, lit bed]
cover note n. temporary certificate of insurance.
cover-point n. Cricket 1 fielding position covering point. 2 fielder at this position.
cover story n. news story in a magazine that is advertised etc. on the front cover.
covert -adj. secret or disguised (covert glance). -n. 1 shelter, esp. a thicket hiding game. 2 feather covering the base of a bird's flight-feather. covertly adv. [French: related to *cover]
cover-up n. concealment of facts.
covet v. (-t-) desire greatly (esp. a thing belonging to another person). [French: related to *Cupid]
covetous adj. (usu. foll. by of) coveting; grasping. covetously adv.
covey n. (pl. -s) 1 brood of partridges. 2 small group of people. [Latin cubo lie]
cow1 n. 1 fully grown female of any esp. domestic bovine animal, used as a source of milk and beef. 2 female of other large animals, esp. the elephant, whale, and seal. 3 derog. slang woman. [Old English]
cow2 v. intimidate or dispirit. [Old Norse]
coward n. person who is easily frightened. [Latin cauda tail]
cowardice n. lack of bravery.
cowardly adj. 1 of or like a coward; lacking courage. 2 (of an action) done against one who cannot retaliate.
cowbell n. bell worn round a cow's neck.
cowboy n. 1 (fem. cowgirl) person who tends cattle, esp. in the western US. 2 colloq. unscrupulous or incompetent person in business.
cower v. crouch or shrink back in fear or distress. [Low German]
cowherd n. person who tends cattle.
cowhide n. 1 cow's hide. 2 leather or whip made from this.
cowl n. 1 monk's cloak. 2 hood-shaped covering of a chimney or ventilating shaft. [Latin cucullus]
cow-lick n. projecting lock of hair.
cowling n. removable cover of a vehicle or aircraft engine.
co-worker n. person who works with another.
cow-parsley n. hedgerow plant with lacelike umbels of flowers.
cow-pat n. flat round piece of cow-dung.
cowpox n. disease of cows, whose virus was formerly used in smallpox vaccination.
cowrie n. 1 tropical mollusc with a bright shell. 2 its shell as money in parts of Africa and S. Asia. [Urdu and Hindi]
co-write v. write with another person. co-writer n.
cowslip n. primula with small yellow flowers. [obsolete slyppe dung]
cox -n. coxswain, esp. of a racing-boat. -v. act as cox (of). [abbreviation]
coxcomb n. ostentatiously conceited man. coxcombry n. (pl. -ies). [= cock's comb]
coxswain -n. 1 person who steers, esp. a rowing-boat. 2 senior petty officer in a small ship. -v. act as coxswain (of). [cock ship's boat, *swain]
coy adj. 1 affectedly shy. 2 irritatingly reticent. coyly adv. coyness n. [French: related to *quiet]
coyote n. (pl. same or -s) N. American wolflike wild dog. [Mexican Spanish]
coypu n. (pl. -s) aquatic beaver-like rodent native to S. America. [Araucan]
cozen v. literary 1 cheat, defraud. 2 beguile. 3 act deceitfully. cozenage n. [cant]
cozy (Brit. cosy) -adj. (-ier, -iest) comfortable and warm; snug. -n. (pl. -ies) cover to keep a teapot etc. hot. cosily adv. cosiness n. [origin unknown]
c.p. abbr. candlepower.
Cpl. abbr. Corporal.
cps abbr. (also c.p.s.) 1 Computing characters per second. 2 Sci. cycles per second.
CPU abbr. Computing central processing unit.
Cr symb. chromium.
crab1 n. 1 a ten-footed crustacean, with the first pair of legs as pincers. b crab as food. 2 (Crab) sign or constellation Cancer. 3 (in full crab-louse) (often in pl.) parasitic louse transmitted sexually to esp. pubic hair. 4 machine for hoisting heavy weights. catch a crab Rowing jam an oar or miss the water. crablike adj. [Old English]
crab2 n. 1 (in full crab-apple) small sour apple. 2 (in full crab tree or crab-apple tree) tree (esp. uncultivated) bearing this. 3 sour person. [origin unknown]
crab3 v. (-bb-) colloq. 1 criticize; grumble. 2 spoil. [Low German krabben]
crabbed adj. 1 = *crabby. 2 (of handwriting) ill-formed; illegible. [from *crab2]
crabby adj. (-ier, -iest) irritable, morose. crabbily adv. crabbiness n.
crabwise adv. & attrib.adj. sideways or backwards.
crack -n. 1 a sharp explosive noise. b sudden harshness or change in vocal pitch. 2 sharp blow. 3 a narrow opening; break or split. b chink. 4 colloq. joke or malicious remark. 5 colloq. attempt. 6 slang crystalline form of cocaine broken into small pieces. -v. 1 break without separating the parts. 2 make or cause to make a sharp explosive sound. 3 break with a sharp sound. 4 give way or cause to give way (under torture etc.). 5 (of the voice) change pitch sharply; break. 6 colloq. find the solution to. 7 tell (a joke etc.). 8 colloq. hit sharply. 9 (as cracked adj.) crazy. 10 break (wheat) into coarse pieces. -attrib. adj. colloq. excellent; first-rate (crack shot). crack a bottle open a bottle, esp. of wine, and drink it. crack down on colloq. take severe measures against. crack of dawn daybreak. crack up colloq. 1 collapse under strain. 2 praise. get cracking colloq. begin promptly and vigorously. [Old English]
crack-brained adj. crazy.
crack-down n. colloq. severe measures (esp. against law-breakers).
cracker n. 1 paper cylinder pulled apart, esp. at Christmas, with a sharp noise and releasing a hat, joke, etc. 2 loud firework. 3 (usu. in pl.) instrument for cracking. 4 thin dry savoury biscuit. 5 slang attractive or admirable person. 6 US biscuit.
crackers predic. adj. slang crazy.
cracking slang -adj. 1 excellent. 2 (attrib.) fast and exciting. -adv. outstandingly.
crackle -v. (-ling) make repeated slight cracking sound (radio crackled; fire was crackling). -n. such a sound. crackly adj. [from *crack]
crackling n. crisp skin of roast pork.
cracknel n. light crisp biscuit. [Dutch: related to *crack]
crackpot slang -n. eccentric person. -adj. mad, unworkable.
crack-up n. colloq. mental breakdown.
-cracy comb. form denoting a particular form of government etc. (bureaucracy). [Latin -cratia]
cradle -n. 1 a baby's bed or cot, esp. on rockers. b place in which something begins, esp. civilization (cradle of democracy). 2 supporting framework or structure. -v. (-ling) 1 contain or shelter as in a cradle. 2 place in a cradle. [Old English]
cradle-snatcher n. slang admirer or lover of a much younger person.
cradle-song n. lullaby.
craft -n. 1 special skill or technique. 2 occupation needing this. 3 (pl. craft) a boat or vessel. b aircraft or spacecraft. 4 cunning or deceit. -v. make in a skilful way. [Old English]
craftsman n. (fem. craftswoman) 1 skilled worker. 2 person who practises a craft. craftsmanship n.
crafty adj. (-ier, -iest) cunning, artful, wily. craftily adv. craftiness n.
crag n. steep or rugged rock. [Celtic]
craggy adj. (-ier, -iest) (of facial features, landscape, etc.) rugged; rough-textured. cragginess n.
crake n. bird of the rail family, esp. the corncrake. [Old Norse, imitative of cry]
cram v. (-mm-) 1 a fill to bursting; stuff. b (foll. by in, into; also absol.) force (a thing) in or into. 2 prepare intensively for an examination. 3 (often foll. by with) feed to excess. [Old English]
crammer n. person or institution that crams pupils for examinations.
cramp -n. 1 painful involuntary muscular contraction. 2 (also cramp-iron) metal bar with bent ends for holding masonry etc. together. -v. 1 affect with cramp. 2 (often foll. by up) confine narrowly. 3 restrict. 4 fasten with a cramp. cramp a person's style prevent a person from acting freely or naturally. [Low German or Dutch]
cramped adj. 1 (of a space) too small. 2 (of handwriting) small and with the letters close together.
crampon n. (US crampoon) (usu. in pl.) spiked iron plate fixed to a boot for climbing on ice. [French: related to *cramp]
crampoon n. (Brit. crampon) (usu. in pl.) spiked iron plate fixed to a boot for climbing on ice. [French: related to *cramp]
cranberry n. (pl. -ies) 1 shrub with small red acid berries. 2 this berry used in cookery. [German Kranbeere crane-berry]
crane -n. 1 machine with a long projecting arm for moving heavy objects. 2 tall wading bird with long legs, neck, and bill. -v. (-ning) (also absol.) stretch out (one's neck) in order to see something. [Old English]
crane-fly n. two-winged long-legged fly: also called *daddy-long-legs.
cranesbill n. wild geranium.
cranium n. (pl. -s or -nia) 1 skull. 2 part of the skeleton enclosing the brain. cranial adj. craniology n. [medieval Latin from Greek]
crank -n. 1 part of an axle or shaft bent at right angles for converting reciprocal into circular motion or vice versa. 2 eccentric person. -v. cause to move by means of a crank. crank up start (a car engine) with a crank. [Old English]
crankcase n. case enclosing a crankshaft.
crankpin n. pin by which a connecting-rod is attached to a crank.
crankshaft n. shaft driven by a crank.
cranky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 colloq. eccentric. 2 working badly; shaky. 3 esp. US crotchety. crankily adv. crankiness n.
cranny n. (pl. -ies) chink, crevice. crannied adj. [French]
crap coarse slang -n. 1 (often as int. or attrib.) nonsense, rubbish. 2 faeces. -v. (-pp-) defecate. crappy adj. (-ier, -iest). [Dutch]
crape n. crêpe, usu. of black silk, formerly used for mourning. [from *crêpe]
craps n.pl. US (also crap game) gambling dice game. [origin uncertain]
crapulent adj. suffering the effects of drunkenness. crapulence n. crapulous adj. [Latin crapula inebriation]
crash1 -v. 1 (cause to) make a loud smashing noise. 2 throw, drive, move, or fall with a loud smash. 3 (often foll. by into) collide or fall, or cause (a vehicle etc.) to collide or fall, violently; overturn at high speed. 4 collapse financially. 5 colloq. gatecrash. 6 Computing (of a machine or system) fail suddenly. 7 colloq. pass (a red traffic-light etc.). 8 (often foll. by out) slang sleep, esp. on a floor etc. -n. 1 loud and sudden smashing noise. 2 violent collision or fall, esp. of a vehicle. 3 ruin, esp. financial. 4 Computing sudden failure of a machine or system. 5 (attrib.) done rapidly or urgently (crash course in first aid). -adv. with a crash (go crash). [imitative]
crash2 n. coarse plain fabric of linen, cotton, etc. [Russian]
crash barrier n. barrier at the side or centre of a road etc.
crash-dive -v. 1 a (of a submarine or its pilot) dive hastily in an emergency. b (of an aircraft or airman) dive and crash. 2 cause to crash-dive. -n. such a dive.
crash-helmet n. helmet worn esp. by motor cyclists.
crashing adj. colloq. overwhelming (crashing bore).
crash-land v. land or cause (an aircraft etc.) to land hurriedly with a crash. crash landing n.
crass adj. gross; grossly stupid. crassly adv. crassness n. [Latin crassus thick]
#NAME?
crate -n. 1 slatted wooden case etc. for conveying esp. fragile goods. 2 slang old aircraft or other vehicle. -v. (-ting) pack in a crate. [perhaps from Dutch]
crate
/ kreIt; kret/ kata nama
1
(b) container made of metal, plastic, etc divided into compartments for transporting or storing bottles. Bekas logam, plastik atau kayu yang mempunyai ruang/petak-petak untuk mengangkut atau menyimpan botol: a crate of milk, a crate of eggs, a crate of tomato sauce.
2
crate something up, put something in a crate. menyimpan sesuatu di dalam bekas berpetak-petak:
crating up a machine. Memasuk dan menyimpan sebuah mesin ke dalam kotak besar.
*Lihat 'box' untuk perbezaan dan perbandingan maksud.
crater -n. 1 mouth of a volcano. 2 bowl-shaped cavity, esp. that made by a shell or bomb. 3 hollow on the surface of a planet or moon, caused by impact. -v. form a crater in. [Greek, = mixing-bowl]
-cratic comb. form (also -cratical) denoting a type of government etc. (autocratic). -cratically comb. form forming adverbs. [forming adverbs]
cravat n. man's scarf worn inside an open-necked shirt. [Serbo-Croatian, = Croat]
crave v. (-ving) (often foll. by for) long or beg for. [Old English]
craven adj. cowardly, abject. [probably French cravanté defeated]
craving n. strong desire or longing.
craw n. crop of a bird or insect. stick in one's craw be unacceptable. [Low German or Dutch]
crawfish n. (pl. same) large marine spiny lobster. [var. of *crayfish]
crawl -v. 1 move slowly, esp. on hands and knees or with the body close to the ground etc. 2 walk or move slowly. 3 colloq. behave obsequiously. 4 (often foll. by with) be or appear to be covered or filled with crawling or moving things or people. 5 (esp. of the skin) creep. -n. 1 crawling. 2 slow rate of movement. 3 high-speed overarm swimming stroke. [origin unknown]
crayfish n. (pl. same) 1 small lobster-like freshwater crustacean. 2 crawfish. [French crevice]
crayon -n. stick or pencil of coloured chalk, wax, etc. -v. draw with crayons. [French craie chalk]
craze -v. (-zing) 1 (usu. as crazed adj.) make insane (crazed with grief). 2 produce fine surface cracks on (pottery glaze etc.); develop such cracks. -n. 1 usu. temporary enthusiasm (craze for skateboarding). 2 object of this. [perhaps from Old Norse]
crazy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 colloq. insane or mad; foolish. 2 (usu. foll. by about) colloq. extremely enthusiastic. 3 (attrib.) (of paving etc.) made up of irregular pieces. crazily adv. craziness n.
creak -n. harsh scraping or squeaking sound. -v. 1 make a creak. 2 a move stiffly or with a creaking noise. b be poorly constructed (plot creaks). [imitative]
creaky adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 liable to creak. 2 a stiff or frail. b decrepit, outmoded. creakiness n.
cream -n. 1 fatty part of milk. 2 its yellowish-white colour. 3 creamlike cosmetic etc. 4 food or drink like or containing cream. 5 (usu. prec. by the) best part of something. -v. 1 take cream from (milk). 2 make creamy. 3 treat (the skin etc.) with cosmetic cream. 4 form a cream or scum. -adj. pale yellowish white. cream off take (esp. the best part) from a whole. [Latin cramum and Church Latin chrisma oil for anointing]
cream cheese n. soft rich cheese made from cream and unskimmed milk.
creamer n. 1 cream-substitute for adding to coffee. 2 jug for cream.
creamery n. (pl. -ies) 1 factory producing butter and cheese. 2 dairy.
cream of tartar n. purified tartar, used in medicine, baking powder, etc.
cream soda n. carbonated vanilla-flavoured soft drink.
cream tea n. afternoon tea with scones, jam, and cream.
creamy adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like cream. 2 rich in cream. creamily adv. creaminess n.
crease -n. 1 line caused by folding or crushing. 2 Cricket line marking the position of a bowler or batsman. -v. (-sing) 1 make creases in. 2 develop creases. 3 slang (often foll. by up) make or become incapable through laughter. [from *crest]
create v. (-ting) 1 bring into existence; cause. 2 originate (actor creates a part). 3 invest with rank (created him a lord). 4 slang make a fuss. [Latin creo]
creation n. 1 creating or being created. 2 a (usu. the Creation) God's creating of the universe. b (usu. Creation) all created things, the universe. 3 product of the imagination, art, fashion, etc.
creative adj. 1 inventive, imaginative. 2 able to create. creatively adv. creativeness n. creativity n.
creative adj. 1 inventive, imaginative. 2 able to create. creatively adv. creativeness n. creativity n.
creative accounting n. exploitation of loopholes in financial legislation to gain maximum advantage or present figures in a misleadingly favourable light.
creator n. 1 person who creates. 2 (as the Creator) God.
creature n. 1 any living being, esp. an animal. 2 person of a specified kind (poor creature). 3 subservient person. creaturely adj. [French from Latin: related to *create]
creature comforts n.pl. good food, warmth, etc.
creche crèche n. day nursery. [French]
credence n. belief. give credence to believe. [medieval Latin: related to *credo]
credential n. (usu. in pl.) 1 certificates, references, etc., attesting to a person's education, character, etc. 2 letter(s) of introduction. [medieval Latin: related to *credence]
credibility n. 1 being credible. 2 reputation, status.
credibility gap n. apparent difference between what is said and what is true.
credible adj. believable or worthy of belief. [Latin: related to *credo]
Usage Credible is sometimes confused with credulous.
credit -n. 1 source of honour, pride, etc. (is a credit to the school). 2 acknowledgement of merit. 3 good reputation. 4 belief or trust. 5 a person's financial standing, esp. as regards money in the bank etc. b power to obtain goods etc. before payment. 6 (usu. in pl.) acknowledgement of a contributor's services to a film etc. 7 grade above pass in an examination. 8 reputation for solvency and honesty in business. 9 a entry in an account of a sum paid into it. b sum entered. c side of an account recording such entries. 10 educational course counting towards a degree. -v. (-t-) 1 believe (cannot credit it). 2 (usu. foll. by to, with) enter on the credit side of an account. credit a person with ascribe (a good quality) to a person. do credit to (or do a person credit) enhance the reputation of. on credit with an arrangement to pay later. to one's credit in one's favour. [Italian or Latin: related to *credo]
creditable adj. bringing credit or honour. creditably adv.
credit card n. plastic card from a bank etc. authorizing the purchase of goods on credit.
credit note n. note with a specific monetary value given by a shop etc. for goods returned.
creditor n. person to whom a debt is owing. [Latin: related to *credit]
credit rating n. estimate of a person's suitability for commercial credit.
creditworthy adj. considered suitable to receive commercial credit. creditworthiness n.
credo n. (pl. -s) creed. [Latin, = I believe]
credulous adj. too ready to believe; gullible. credulity n. credulously adv. [Latin: related to *credo]
Usage Credulous is sometimes confused with credible.
creed n. 1 set of principles or beliefs. 2 system of religious belief. 3 (often the creed) formal summary of Christian doctrine. [Latin: related to *credo]
creek n. 1 a inlet on a sea-coast. b short arm of a river. 2 esp. US, Austral., & NZ tributary of a river; stream. up the creek slang 1 in difficulties. 2 crazy. [Old Norse and Dutch]
creel n. fisherman's large wicker basket. [origin unknown]
creep -v. (past and past part. crept) 1 move with the body prone and close to the ground. 2 move stealthily or timidly. 3 advance very gradually (a feeling crept over her). 4 colloq. act obsequiously in the hope of advancement. 5 (of a plant) grow along the ground or up a wall etc. 6 (as creeping adj.) developing slowly and steadily. 7 (of flesh) shiver or shudder from fear, horror, etc. -n. 1 act or spell of creeping. 2 (in pl.; prec. by the) colloq. feeling of revulsion or fear. 3 slang unpleasant person. 4 (of metals etc.) gradual change of shape under stress. [Old English]
creeper n. 1 climbing or creeping plant. 2 bird that climbs, esp. the treecreeper. 3 slang soft-soled shoe.
creeper n. 1 climbing or creeping plant. 2 bird that climbs, esp. the treecreeper. 3 slang soft-soled shoe.
creepy adj. (-ier, -iest) colloq. feeling or causing horror or fear. creepily adv. creepiness n.
creepy-crawly n. (pl. -ies) colloq. small crawling insect etc.
cremate v. (-ting) burn (a corpse etc.) to ashes. cremation n. [Latin cremo burn]
crematorium n. (pl. -ria or -s) place where corpses are cremated.
crème n. 1 = *cream n. 4. 2 liqueur (crème de cassis). [French, = cream]
crème brûlée n. baked cream or custard pudding coated with caramel.
crème caramel n. custard coated with caramel.
crème de cassis n. blackcurrant liqueur.
crème de la crème n. best part; élite.
crème de menthe n. peppermint liqueur.
crenelate v. (Brit. crenellate) (-ting) provide (a tower etc.) with battlements. crenellation n. [French crenel embrasure]
crenellate v. (US crenelate) (-ting) provide (a tower etc.) with battlements. crenellation n. [French crenel embrasure]
Creole -n. 1 a descendant of European settlers in the W. Indies or Central or S. America. b White descendant of French settlers in the southern US. c person of mixed European and Black descent. 2 language formed from a European language and another (esp. African) language. -adj. 1 of Creoles. 2 (usu. creole) of Creole origin etc. (creole cooking). [French from Spanish]
creosote -n. 1 dark-brown oil distilled from coal tar, used as a wood-preservative. 2 oily fluid distilled from wood tar, used as an antiseptic. -v. (-ting) treat with creosote. [Greek kreas flesh, soter preserver, because of its antiseptic properties]
crêpe n. 1 fine gauzy wrinkled fabric. 2 thin pancake with a savoury or sweet filling. 3 hard-wearing wrinkled sheet rubber used for the soles of shoes etc. crêpey adj. crêpy adj. [Latin: related to *crisp]
crêpe de Chine n. fine silk crêpe.
crêpe paper n. thin crinkled paper.
crêpe Suzette n. small dessert pancake flamed in alcohol.
crept past and past part. of *creep.
crepuscular adj. 1 a of twilight. b dim. 2 Zool. appearing or active in twilight. [Latin crepusculum twilight]
Cres. abbr. Crescent.
cresc. abbr. (also cres.) Mus. = *crescendo.
crescendo -n. (pl. -s) 1 Mus. gradual increase in loudness. 2 progress towards a climax. -adv. & adj. increasing in loudness. [Italian: related to *crescent]
Usage Crescendo is sometimes wrongly used to mean the climax itself rather than progress towards it.
crescent -n. 1 curved sickle shape as of the waxing or waning moon. 2 thing of this shape, esp. a street forming an arc. -adj. crescent-shaped. [Latin cresco grow]
cress n. any of various plants with pungent edible leaves. [Old English]
crest -n. 1 a comb or tuft etc. on a bird's or animal's head. b plume etc. on a helmet etc. 2 top of a mountain, wave, roof, etc. 3 Heraldry a device above a coat of arms. b such a device on writing-paper etc. -v. 1 reach the crest of. 2 provide with a crest or serve as a crest to. 3 (of a wave) form a crest. crested adj. [Latin crista]
crestfallen adj. dejected, dispirited.
cretaceous -adj. 1 of or like chalk. 2 (Cretaceous) Geol. of the last period of the Mesozoic era, with deposits of chalk. -n. (Cretaceous) Geol. this era or system. [Latin creta chalk]
cretin n. 1 deformed and mentally retarded person, esp. as the result of thyroid deficiency. 2 colloq. stupid person. cretinism n. cretinous adj. [French crétin: related to *Christian]
cretonne n. (often attrib.) heavy cotton upholstery fabric, usu. with a floral pattern. [Creton in Normandy]
crevasse n. deep open crack, esp. in a glacier. [Latin crepo crack]
crevice n. narrow opening or fissure, esp. in rock etc. [French: related to *crevasse]
crew1 -n. (often treated as pl.) 1 a people manning a ship, aircraft, train, etc. b these as distinct from the captain or officers. c people working together; team. 2 colloq. gang. -v. 1 supply or act as a crew or crew member for. 2 act as a crew. [Latin cresco increase]
crew2 past of *crow2.
crew cut n. close-cropped hairstyle.
crewel n. thin worsted yarn for tapestry and embroidery. [origin unknown]
crewel-work n. design in crewel.
crew neck n. round close-fitting neckline.
crib -n. 1 a baby's small bed or cot. b model of the Nativity with a manger. 2 rack for animal fodder. 3 colloq. a translation of a text used by students. b plagiarized work etc. 4 colloq. a cribbage. b set of cards given to the dealer at cribbage. -v. (-bb-) (also absol.) 1 colloq. copy unfairly. 2 confine in a small space. 3 colloq. pilfer. [Old English]
cribbage n. card-game for up to four players. [origin unknown]
crick -n. sudden painful stiffness, esp. in the neck. -v. cause this in. [origin unknown]
cricket1 n. team game played on a grass pitch, with bowling at a wicket defended by a batting player of the other team. not cricket colloq. unfair behaviour. cricketer n. [origin uncertain]
cricket2 n. grasshopper-like chirping insect. [French, imitative]
cri de cœur n. (pl. cris de cœur pronunc. same) passionate appeal, protest, etc. [French, = cry from the heart]
cried past and past part. of *cry.
crier n. (also cryer) 1 person who cries. 2 official making public announcements in a lawcourt or street. [related to *cry]
crikey int. slang expression of astonishment. [from *Christ]
crime n. 1 a offence punishable by law. b illegal acts (resorted to crime). 2 evil act (crime against humanity). 3 colloq. shameful act. [Latin crimen]
criminal -n. person guilty of a crime. -adj. 1 of, involving, or concerning crime. 2 guilty of crime. 3 Law of or concerning criminal offences (criminal code; criminal lawyer). 4 colloq. scandalous, deplorable. criminality n. criminally adv. [Latin: related to *crime]
criminology n. the study of crime. criminologist n.
crimp -v. 1 press into small folds; corrugate. 2 make waves in (hair). -n. crimped thing or form. [Low German or Dutch]
Crimplene n. propr. synthetic crease-resistant fabric.
crimson -adj. of a rich deep red. -n. this colour. [ultimately from Arabic: related to *kermes]
cringe v. (-ging) 1 shrink in fear; cower. 2 (often foll. by to) behave obsequiously. [related to *crank]
crinkle -n. wrinkle or crease. -v. (-ling) form crinkles (in). crinkly adj. [related to *cringe]
crinkle-cut adj. (of vegetables) with wavy edges.
crinoline n. 1 hist. stiffened or hooped petticoat. 2 stiff fabric of horsehair etc. used for linings, hats, etc. [French from Latin crinis hair, linum thread]
cripple -n. permanently lame person. -v. (-ling) 1 make a cripple of; lame. 2 disable, weaken, or damage seriously (crippled by strikes). [Old English]
crisis n. (pl. crises) 1 time of danger or great difficulty. 2 decisive moment; turning-point. [Greek, = decision]
crisp -adj. 1 hard but brittle. 2 a (of air) bracing. b (of style or manner) lively, brisk and decisive. c (of features etc.) neat, clear-cut. d (of paper) stiff and crackling. e (of hair) closely curling. -n. (in full potato crisp) potato sliced thinly, fried, and sold in packets. -v. make or become crisp. crisply adv. crispness n. [Latin crispus curled]
crispbread n. 1 thin crisp biscuit of crushed rye etc. 2 these collectively (packet of crispbread).
crispy adj. (-ier, -iest) crisp. crispiness n.
criss-cross -n. pattern of crossing lines. -adj. crossing; in cross lines. -adv. crosswise; at cross purposes. -v. 1 a intersect repeatedly. b move crosswise. 2 mark or make with a criss-cross pattern. [Christ's cross]
criterion n. (pl. -ria) principle or standard of judgement. [Greek, = means of judging]
Usage The plural form of criterion, criteria, is often used incorrectly as the singular. In the singular criterion should always be used.
critic n. 1 person who criticizes. 2 person who reviews literary, artistic, etc. works. [Latin criticus from Greek krites judge]
critical adj. 1 a fault-finding, censorious. b expressing or involving criticism. 2 skilful at or engaged in criticism. 3 providing textual criticism (critical edition of Milton). 4 a of or at a crisis; dangerous, risky (in a critical condition). b decisive, crucial (at the critical moment). 5 a Math. & Physics marking a transition from one state etc. to another (critical angle). b (of a nuclear reactor) maintaining a self-sustaining chain reaction. critically adv. criticalness n.
critical path n. sequence of stages determining the minimum time needed for an operation.
criticism n. 1 a fault-finding; censure. b critical remark etc. 2 a work of a critic. b analytical article, essay, etc.
criticize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (also absol.) 1 find fault with; censure. 2 discuss critically.
critique n. critical analysis. [French: related to *critic]
croak -n. deep hoarse sound, esp. of a frog. -v. 1 utter or speak with a croak. 2 slang die. [imitative]
croaky adj. (-ier, -iest) croaking; hoarse. croakily adv. croakiness n.
Croat (also Croatian) -n. 1 a native of Croatia in SE Europe. b person of Croatian descent. 2 Slavonic dialect of the Croats. -adj. of the Croats or their dialect. [Serbo-Croatian Hrvat]
crochet -n. needlework in which yarn is hooked to make a lacy patterned fabric. -v. (crocheted; crocheting) (also absol.) make using crochet. [French: related to *crotchet]
crock1 n. colloq. old or worn-out person or vehicle. [originally Scots]
crock2 n. 1 earthenware pot or jar. 2 broken piece of this. [Old English]
crockery n. earthenware or china dishes, plates, etc. [related to *crock2]
crocodile n. 1 a large tropical amphibious reptile with thick scaly skin, a long tail, and long jaws. b (often attrib.) its skin. 2 colloq. line of schoolchildren etc. walking in pairs. [Greek krokodilos]
crocodile tears n.pl. insincere grief.
crocus n. (pl. -cuses) small plant with white, yellow, or purple flowers, growing from a corm. [Latin from Greek]
Croesus n. person of great wealth. [name of a king of ancient Lydia]
croft -n. 1 enclosed piece of (usu. arable) land. 2 small rented farm in Scotland or N. England. -v. farm a croft; live as a crofter. [Old English]
crofter n. person who farms a croft.
Crohn's disease n. chronic inflammatory disease of the alimentary tract. [E. Crohn, name of a US pathologist]
croissant n. crescent-shaped breakfast roll. [French: related to *crescent]
cromlech n. 1 dolmen. 2 prehistoric stone circle. [Welsh]
crone n. withered old woman. [Dutch croonje carcass]
crony n. (pl. -ies) friend, companion. [Greek khronios long-lasting]
crook -n. 1 hooked staff of a shepherd or bishop. 2 a bend, curve, or hook. b hooked or curved thing. 3 colloq. rogue; swindler; criminal. -v. bend, curve. [Old Norse]
crooked adj. (-er, -est) 1 not straight or level; bent. 2 colloq. not straightforward; dishonest, criminal. crookedly adv. crookedness n.
croon -v. sing, hum, or say in a low sentimental voice. -n. such singing etc. crooner n. [Low German or Dutch]
crop -n. 1 a produce of cultivated plants, esp. cereals. b season's yield. 2 group, yield, etc., of one time or place (a new crop of students). 3 handle of a whip. 4 a very short haircut. b cropping of hair. 5 pouch in a bird's gullet where food is prepared for digestion. -v. (-pp-) 1 a cut off. b bite off. 2 cut (hair etc.) short. 3 (foll. by with) sow or plant (land) with a crop. 4 (of land) bear a crop. crop up occur unexpectedly. [Old English]
crop circle n. circle of crops that has been inexplicably flattened.
crop-eared adj. with the ears (esp. of animals) or hair cut short.
cropper n. crop-producing plant of a specified quality. come a cropper slang fall heavily; fail badly.
croquet -n. 1 lawn game in which wooden balls are driven through hoops with mallets. 2 act of croqueting a ball. -v. (croqueted; croqueting) drive away (an opponent's ball) by placing and then striking one's own against it. [perhaps a dial. form of French crochet hook]
croquette n. ball of breaded and fried mashed potato etc. [French croquer crunch]
crosier n. (also crozier) bishop's ceremonial hooked staff. [French croisier cross-bearer and crossier crook-bearer]
cross -n. 1 upright post with a transverse bar, as used in antiquity for crucifixion. 2 a (the Cross) cross on which Christ was crucified. b representation of this as an emblem of Christianity. c = *sign of the cross. 3 staff surmounted by a cross, carried in a religious procession. 4 thing or mark like a cross, esp. two short intersecting lines (+ or x). 5 cross-shaped military etc. decoration. 6 a hybrid. b crossing of breeds etc. 7 (foll. by between) mixture of two things. 8 crosswise movement, pass in football, etc. 9 trial or affliction. -v. 1 (often foll. by over) go across. 2 intersect; (cause to) be across (roads cross; cross one's legs). 3 a draw line(s) across. b mark (a cheque) with two parallel lines to indicate that it cannot be cashed. 4 (foll. by off, out, through) cancel etc. by drawing lines across. 5 (often refl.) make the sign of the cross on or over. 6 a pass in opposite or different directions. b (of letters etc.) be sent at the same time. c (of telephone lines) be connected to an unwanted conversation. 7 a cause to interbreed. b cross-fertilize (plants). 8 oppose or thwart (crossed in love). -adj. 1 (often foll. by with) peevish, angry. 2 (usu. attrib.) transverse; reaching from side to side. 3 (usu. attrib.) intersecting. 4 (usu. attrib.) contrary, opposed, reciprocal. at cross purposes misunderstanding; conflicting. cross one's fingers (or keep one's fingers crossed) 1 put one finger across another to ward off bad luck. 2 trust in good luck. cross one's heart make a solemn pledge, esp. by crossing one's front. cross one's mind occur to one, esp. transiently. cross swords (often foll. by with) argue or dispute. cross wires (or get one's wires crossed) 1 become wrongly connected by telephone. 2 have a misunderstanding. on the cross diagonally. crossly adv. crossness n. [Latin crux]
crossbar n. horizontal bar, esp. that on a man's bicycle.
cross-bench n. seat in the House of Lords for non-party members. cross-bencher n.
crossbill n. finch with a bill with crossed mandibles for opening pine cones.
crossbones see *skull and crossbones.
crossbow n. bow fixed on a wooden stock, with a groove for an arrow.
crossbreed -n. 1 hybrid breed of animals or plants. 2 individual hybrid. -v. produce by crossing.
cross-check -v. check by alternative method(s). -n. such a check.
cross-country -adj. & adv. 1 across open country. 2 not keeping to main roads. -n. (pl. -ies) cross-country race.
cross-cut -adj. cut across the main grain. -n. diagonal cut, path, etc.
cross-cut saw n. saw for cross-cutting.
cross-dressing n. practice of dressing in the clothes of the opposite sex. cross-dress v.
crosse n. lacrosse stick. [French]
cross-examine v. question (esp. an opposing witness in a lawcourt). cross-examination n.
cross-eyed adj. having one or both eyes turned inwards.
cross-fertilize v. (also -ise) 1 fertilize (an animal or plant) from one of a different species. 2 interchange ideas etc. cross-fertilization n.
crossfire n. 1 firing in two crossing directions simultaneously. 2 a attack or criticism from all sides. b combative exchange of views etc.
cross-grain n. grain in timber, running across the regular grain.
cross-grained adj. 1 having a cross-grain. 2 perverse, intractable.
cross-hatch v. shade with crossing parallel lines.
crossing n. 1 place where things (esp. roads) cross. 2 place for crossing a street etc. 3 journey across water.
cross-legged adj. (sitting) with legs folded one across the other.
crossover -n. 1 point or place of crossing. 2 process of crossing over, esp. from one style or genre to another. -attrib. adj. that crosses over, esp. from one style or genre to another.
crosspatch n. colloq. bad-tempered person.
crosspiece n. transverse beam etc.
cross-ply adj. (of a tyre) having fabric layers with crosswise cords.
cross-question v. = *cross-examine.
cross-refer v. (-rr-) refer from one part of a book etc. to another.
cross-reference -n. reference from one part of a book etc. to another. -v. provide with cross-references.
crossroad n. (usu. in pl.) intersection of two or more roads. at the crossroads at the critical point.
cross-section n. 1 a a cutting across a solid. b plane surface so produced. c drawing etc. of this. 2 representative sample. cross-sectional adj.
cross-stitch n. cross-shaped stitch.
crosstalk n. 1 unwanted signals between communication channels. 2 witty repartee.
crossways adv. = *crosswise.
crosswind n. wind blowing across one's path etc.
crosswise adj. & adv. 1 in the form of a cross; intersecting. 2 diagonal or diagonally.
crossword n. (also crossword puzzle) printed grid of squares and blanks for vertical and horizontal words to be filled in from clues.
crotch n. fork, esp. between legs (of a person, trousers, etc.). [related to *crook]
crotchet n. Mus. note equal to a quarter of a semibreve and usu. one beat. [French diminutive of croc: related to *crook]
crotchety adj. peevish, irritable.
crouch -v. lower the body with limbs close to the chest; be in this position. -n. crouching; crouching position. [Old Norse: related to *crook]
croup1 n. childhood inflammation of the larynx etc., with a hard cough. [imitative]
croup2 n. rump, esp. of a horse. [French: related to *crop]
croupier n. person running a gaming-table, raking in and paying out money etc. [French: related to *croup2]
croûton n. small cube of fried or toasted bread served with soup etc. [French: related to *crust]
crow1 n. 1 large black bird with a powerful black beak. 2 similar bird, e.g. the raven, rook, and jackdaw. as the crow flies in a straight line. [Old English]
crow2 -v. 1 (past crowed or crew) (of a cock) utter a loud cry. 2 (of a baby) utter happy cries. 3 (usu. foll. by over) gloat; show glee. -n. cry of a cock or baby. [Old English]
crowbar n. iron bar with a flattened end, used as a lever.
crowd -n. 1 large gathering of people. 2 spectators; audience. 3 colloq. particular set of people. 4 (prec. by the) majority. -v. 1 a (cause to) come together in a crowd. b force one's way (crowded into the cinema). 2 a (foll. by into) force or compress into a confined space. b (often foll. by with; usu. in passive) fill or make full of. 3 colloq. come aggressively close to. crowd out exclude by crowding. crowdedness n. [Old English]
crown -n. 1 monarch's jewelled headdress. 2 (the Crown) a monarch as head of State. b power or authority of the monarchy. 3 a wreath for the head as an emblem of victory. b award or distinction, esp. in sport. 4 crown-shaped ornament etc. 5 top part of the head, a hat, etc. 6 a highest or central part (crown of the road). b thing that completes or forms a summit. 7 a part of a tooth visible outside the gum. b artificial replacement for this. 8 former British coin worth five shillings. -v. 1 put a crown on (a person or head). 2 invest with a royal crown or authority. 3 be a crown to; rest on top of. 4 a (often as crowning adj.) (cause to) be the reward, summit, or finishing touch to (crowning glory). b bring to a happy outcome. 5 fit a crown to (a tooth). 6 slang hit on the head. 7 promote (a piece in draughts) to king. [Latin corona]
Crown Colony n. British colony controlled by the Crown.
Crown Court n. court of criminal jurisdiction in England and Wales.
Crown Derby n. porcelain made at Derby and often marked with a crown.
crown glass n. glass without lead or iron used formerly in windows, now as optical glass of low refractive index.
crown jewels n.pl. sovereign's State regalia etc.
Crown prince n. male heir to a throne.
Crown princess n. 1 wife of a Crown prince. 2 female heir to a throne.
crown wheel n. wheel with teeth at right angles to its plane.
crow's-foot n. wrinkle near the eye.
crow's-nest n. shelter at a sailing-ship's masthead for a lookout man.
crozier var. of *crosier.
CRT abbr. cathode-ray tube.
cru n. 1 French vineyard or wine region. 2 grade of wine. [French crû grown]
cruces pl. of *crux.
crucial adj. 1 decisive, critical. 2 very important. crucially adv. [Latin crux crucis cross]
Usage The use of crucial in sense 2 should be restricted to informal contexts.
crucible n. 1 melting-pot for metals etc. 2 severe test. [medieval Latin: related to *crucial]
cruciferous adj. having flowers with four petals arranged in a cross. [Latin: related to *crucial]
crucifix n. model of a cross with the figure of Christ on it. [Latin cruci fixus fixed to a cross]
crucifixion n. 1 crucifying or being crucified. 2 (Crucifixion) crucifixion of Christ. [Church Latin: related to *crucifix]
cruciform adj. cross-shaped. [Latin crux crucis cross]
crucify v. (-ies, -ied) 1 put to death by fastening to a cross. 2 persecute, torment. 3 slang defeat thoroughly; humiliate. [French: related to *crucifix]
crud n. slang 1 deposit of grease etc. 2 unpleasant person. cruddy adj. (-ier, -iest). [var. of *curd]
crude -adj. 1 a in the natural state; not refined. b unpolished; lacking finish. 2 a rude, blunt. b offensive, indecent. 3 inexact. -n. natural mineral oil. crudely adv. crudeness n. crudity n. [Latin crudus raw]
crudités n.pl. hors d'oeuvre of mixed raw vegetables. [French]
cruel adj. (crueller, cruellest or crueler, cruelest) 1 causing pain or suffering, esp. deliberately. 2 harsh, severe (a cruel blow). cruelly adv. cruelness n. cruelty n. (pl. -ies). [Latin: related to *crude]
cruet n. 1 set of small salt, pepper, etc. containers for use at table. 2 such a container. [Anglo-French diminutive: related to *crock2]
cruise -v. (-sing) 1 a travel by sea for pleasure, calling at ports. b sail about. 2 travel at a relaxed or economical speed. 3 achieve an objective, esp. win a race etc. with ease. 4 slang search for a sexual (esp. homosexual) partner in bars, streets, etc. -n. cruising voyage. [Dutch: related to *cross]
cruise missile n. one able to fly low and guide itself.
cruiser n. 1 high-speed warship. 2 = *cabin cruiser.
cruiserweight n. = *light heavyweight.
crumb -n. 1 a small fragment, esp. of bread. b small particle (crumb of comfort). 2 bread without crusts. 3 slang objectionable person. -v. cover with or break into breadcrumbs. [Old English]
crumb
/ kram/ kata nama
1 [Countable Nouns. Kata nama yang boleh dibilang] very small piece, especially of bread, cake or biscuit, which has fallen off a larger piece. Cebisan roti, kek atau biscuit yang terjatuh daripada keping yang lebih besar: sweep the crumbs off the table. Menyapu cebisan yang terdapat di atas meja .
2 [Uncountable Nouns. Kata nama yang tidak boleh dibilang] soft inner part of a loaf of bread. Bahagian inti roti.
3 [Countable Nouns. Kata nama yang boleh dibilang] small piece or amount. Sedikit: a few crumbs of information. Sedikit maklumat. I failed my exam, and my only crumb of comfort (the only thing that consoles me) is that I can take it again. Saya gagal di dalam peperiksaan, peluang untuk saya menduduki peperiksaan tersebut sekali lagi umpama cebisan yang melegakan.
4 [Countable Nouns. Kata nama yang boleh dibilang] (Bahasa Inggeris Gaya Amerika, percakapan) contemptible person. Orang yang tidak disukai: You little crumb! Kau manusia yang dibenci.
crumble -v. (-ling) 1 break or fall into small fragments. 2 (of power etc.) gradually disintegrate. -n. dish of stewed fruit with a crumbly topping.
crumbly adj. (-ier, -iest) consisting of, or apt to fall into, crumbs or fragments. crumbliness n.
crumbs int. slang expressing dismay or surprise. [euphemism for *Christ]
crumby adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 like or covered in crumbs. 2 = *crummy.
crumhorn var. of *krummhorn.
crummy adj. (-ier, -iest) slang dirty, squalid; inferior, worthless. crumminess n. [var. of *crumby]
crumpet n. 1 soft flat yeasty cake toasted and buttered. 2 joc. or offens. sexually attractive woman or women. [origin uncertain]
crumple -v. (-ling) (often foll. by up) 1 crush or become crushed into creases or wrinkles. 2 collapse, give way. -n. crease or wrinkle. [obsolete crump curl up]
crunch -v. 1 a crush noisily with the teeth. b grind under foot, wheels, etc. 2 (often foll. by up, through) make a crunching sound. -n. 1 crunching; crunching sound. 2 colloq. decisive event or moment. [imitative]
crunchy adj. (-ier, -iest) hard and crisp. crunchiness n.
crupper n. 1 strap looped under a horse's tail to hold the harness back. 2 hindquarters of a horse. [French: related to *croup2]
crusade -n. 1 hist. any of several medieval military expeditions made by Europeans to recover the Holy Land from the Muslims. 2 vigorous campaign for a cause. -v. (-ding) engage in a crusade. crusader n. [French: related to *cross]
cruse n. archaic earthenware pot. [Old English]
crush -v. 1 compress with force or violence, so as to break, bruise, etc. 2 reduce to powder by pressure. 3 crease or crumple. 4 defeat or subdue completely. -n. 1 act of crushing. 2 crowded mass of people. 3 drink from the juice of crushed fruit. 4 (usu. foll. by on) colloq. infatuation. [French]
crust -n. 1 a hard outer part of bread. b hard dry scrap of bread. c slang livelihood. 2 pastry covering of a pie. 3 hard casing over a soft thing. 4 outer portion of the earth. 5 deposit, esp. from wine on a bottle. -v. cover or become covered with or form into a crust. [Latin crusta rind, shell]
crustacean -n. esp. aquatic arthropod with a hard shell, e.g. the crab, lobster, and shrimp. -adj. of crustaceans.
crusty adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 having a crisp crust. 2 irritable, curt. crustily adv. crustiness n.
crutch n. 1 usu. T-shaped support for a lame person fitting under the armpit. 2 support, prop. 3 crotch. [Old English]
crux n. (pl. cruxes or cruces) decisive point at issue. [Latin, = cross]
cruzado n. (pl. -s) chief monetary unit of Brazil. [Portuguese]
cruzeiro n. (pl. -s) one-thousandth of a cruzado. [Portuguese]
cry -v. (cries, cried) 1 (often foll. by out) make a loud or shrill sound, esp. to express pain, grief, etc., or to appeal for help. 2 shed tears; weep. 3 (often foll. by out) say or exclaim loudly or excitedly. 4 (foll. by for) appeal, demand, or show a need for. 5 (of an animal, esp. a bird) make a loud call. -n. (pl. cries) 1 loud shout or scream of grief, pain, etc. 2 spell of weeping. 3 loud excited utterance. 4 urgent appeal. 5 a public demand or opinion. b rallying call. 6 call of an animal. cry down disparage. cry off withdraw from an undertaking. cry out for need as an obvious requirement or solution. cry wolf see *wolf. [Latin quirito]
cry-baby n. person who weeps frequently.
cryer var. of *crier.
crying attrib. adj. (of injustice etc.) flagrant, demanding redress.
cryogenics n. branch of physics dealing with very low temperatures. cryogenic adj. [Greek kruos frost, -genes born]
crypt n. vault, esp. beneath a church, used usu. as a burial-place. [Latin crypta from Greek kruptos hidden]
cryptic adj. obscure in meaning; secret, mysterious. cryptically adv.
cryptogam n. plant with no true flowers or seeds, e.g. ferns, mosses, and fungi. cryptogamous adj. [as *crypt, Greek gamos marriage]
cryptogram n. text written in cipher. [related to *crypt]
cryptography n. art of writing or solving ciphers. cryptographer n. cryptographic adj.
crystal -n. 1 a transparent colourless mineral, esp. rock crystal. b piece of this. 2 a highly transparent glass; flint glass. b articles of this. 3 crystalline piece of semiconductor. 4 aggregation of molecules with a definite internal structure and the external form of a solid enclosed by symmetrically arranged plane faces. -adj. (usu. attrib.) made of, like, or clear as crystal. [Greek krustallos]
crystal ball n. glass globe used in crystal-gazing.
crystal-gazing n. supposed foretelling of the future by gazing into a crystal ball.
crystalline adj. 1 of, like, or clear as crystal. 2 having the structure and form of a crystal. crystallinity n.
crystallize v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 form into crystals. 2 (often foll. by out) (of ideas or plans) make or become definite. 3 make or become coated or impregnated with sugar (crystallized fruit). crystallization n.
crystallography n. science of crystal formation and structure. crystallographer n.
crystalloid n. substance that in solution is able to pass through a semipermeable membrane.
Cs symb. caesium.
c/s abbr. cycles per second.
CSE abbr. hist. Certificate of Secondary Education.
Usage The CSE examination was replaced in 1988 by GCSE.
CS gas n. tear-gas used to control riots etc. [Corson and Stoughton, names of chemists]
CTC abbr. City Technology College.
Cu symb. copper. [Latin cuprum]
cu. abbr. cubic.
cub -n. 1 young of a fox, bear, lion, etc. 2 (Cub) (in full Cub Scout) junior Scout. 3 colloq. young newspaper reporter. -v. (-bb-) (also absol.) give birth to (cubs). [origin unknown]
cubby-hole n. 1 very small room. 2 snug space. [Low German]
cube -n. 1 solid contained by six equal squares. 2 cube-shaped block. 3 product of a number multiplied by its square. -v. (-bing) 1 find the cube of (a number). 2 cut (food etc.) into small cubes. [Latin from Greek]
cube root n. number which produces a given number when cubed.
cubic adj. 1 cube-shaped. 2 of three dimensions. 3 involving the cube (and no higher power) of a number (cubic equation).
cubical adj. cube-shaped.
cubicle n. 1 small screened space. 2 small separate sleeping-compartment. [Latin cubo lie]
cubic metre etc. n. volume of a cube whose edge is one metre etc.
cubism n. style in art, esp. painting, in which objects are represented geometrically. cubist n. & adj.
cubit n. ancient measure of length, approximating to the length of a forearm. [Latin cubitum elbow]
cuboid -adj. cube-shaped; like a cube. -n. Geom. rectangular parallelepiped.
cuckold -n. husband of an adulteress. -v. make a cuckold of. cuckoldry n. [French]
cuckoo -n. bird having a characteristic cry, and laying its eggs in the nests of small birds. -predic. adj. slang crazy. [French, imitative]
cuckoo clock n. clock with the figure of a cuckoo emerging to make a call on the hour.
